Making conversation - why is it so hard!

[AwkwardBunny]

NC for this as I find it so embarrassing.
I just find it really difficult to make conversation with people, be it work colleagues, other school mums, neighbours, etc.

I would really like to form better relationships with people as I have quite a few acquaintances but not many people I would count as friends, but I can’t seem to get close to people and I think this is a big part of the problem. I’m just too quiet and I guess people find me a bit hard work.

There are people I know who I have a lot in common with and know fairly well, but if I run into them I still struggle to find something to say. I think it’s a viscious circle as the more I can’t think of anything interesting to say, the more panicked and awkward I feel and the more blank my mind goes.

Anyone else feel this way and/ or have tips on how to overcome it?

Many people like the chance to talk about themselves, so asking lots of questions is a good tip.

I’m not a big chatter, I just listen and nod and most people are quite happy with that! I do occasionally interject with a joke or often end up missing my gap and staying quiet . The right people won’t hold it against you.