Sometimes I feel like I am the most boring person on the face of the earth. I know everyone has felt that way one time or another. Take awkward silence for example…why does it happen? Are we all so inept at conversation? Are we shy? Do we just not care? More often than not, people are just so not used to interacting with others without an initial shared connection, and even when they can hold a conversation, it can feel pretty canned.
Today, I stepped out of the office to do an event at a large local company. Working in sales, it’s a major part of my job to talk to people, to find out what they need or what they want and to provide a solution. I have found, however, that there is a major difference between a successful salesperson and a struggling one-actually caring about what the people you are talking to are saying. Having a conversation just for the sake of having one or for your own personal gain provides no true lasting satisfaction.
Often, I find myself wanting to avoid situations which could be awkward, but then I remind myself that everyone is interesting. I can learn something from anyone I talk to, and I know that if you don’t ask a question, you will never find an answer. Everyone has a unique story and a unique life, even if they feel like they are boring or average.
Day 22, talk, ask questions, fill in silences unawkwardly, and genuinely care. We can learn and grow so much from one another, free of charge.