How to talk to real people

[Samantha Bean]

Okay, I'm relatively certain that I am not the only person that has this particular problem, so I feel pretty safe posting this here. I am terribly shy, almost to point of total social retardation. I have no idea what to say to people, and the thought of talking to strangers, quite frankly, terrifies me. Now, I'm going to be a freshman in college this fall, and, because of this, I feel that my problem could be...well, a problem. I have to share an apartment-type dorm with four or five other girls, so I'm thinking now is a perfect time to get some advice. If anyone has any, I would greatly, greatly appreciate it.

[PWC]

In terms of meeting/talking to people, I would suggest you join in a conversation. The best way to join a conversation is to say something relevant to what the people are discussing. Wait until you have a chance to say something, and then say it. Just remeber to make yourself interesting to listen to,.after s little while, talking should come naturally. Hope that helps.

[Samantha Bean]

Thanks =) I always have a little trouble (okay, quite a bit =P) talking to new people, but I'm willing to try anything! =) Thanks you for your advice!

[Jessie]

Well one way to is to say "hey I like your shirt" Or some other compliment like that. Not only will it get a stranger to like you more, but it may also start a conversation.

[Jennie Salter]

Yes, compliments are always good.
Equally, remember that when someone compliments you in return, don't get shy, just smile and say "Thanks".

[Brittney]

Well, who are you comfortable talking to? What kind of things do you talk about?

Talking to strangers is much like talking to people you're close to ... except, y'know, you don't already know what they're interested in and how they react to things. But that's the fun of meeting new people! With practice you'll be able to pick up on when a conversation is headed in a good direction.

Don't worry too much about how you're supposed to act or what you're supposed to say, just be you! It's cheesy, I know, but the friends you want are the friends who like you for who you are when you're not faking it.

[Siham Abdellah]

I used to be a really shy kid. After years of practice I've found the best way to talk to people is to find something relevant to say, say it, and be friendly about it. Make a joke, tell a pun, do a little dance, make a little love. And most of all get down tonight.

[Samantha]

: ) Nice song!

[Owen M]

Push your boundries! I used to feel slightly uncomfortable just being casual with strangers (which isn't considered very odd) and I really didn't like this. So I pushed my boundries, when I went out to the Movies or a sports game I talked with people I came by (not during the movie). I met as many people as I could and just talked about whatever came to mind.

At first it was weird, but it's a liberating feeling. Also, don't overanalyze things. I figure a lot of nerdfighters do this, I always try to avoid it. Don't think so much, just, BE yourself and try to have fun.

[Team Unicorn (ningmaster)]

Just remember: they're just people. They will not bite your head off. Unless they're aliens diguised as aliens. Just find a common ground with your new apartment mates no matter what it is :) I'm sure there's something you gals can talk about. I am familiar with girl conversation. If this fails, just admit that you're shy and you have trouble talking to people sometimes. A little honesty and revealing this might help the girls relate to you. They might just be as nervous about living with someone new as you are. I also advise getting the shower first during the day. Otherwise, you may not shower for awhile xD

[Carly Koneska]

as for talking to strangers, if it's just some random person at McDonalds or something just remember you'll probably never see them again. And with people you want to make friends with, just tell them, in a joking way, "I can't believe I'm talking already, I'm usually so shy I hide under my bed!" Then they'll laugh and say, "Yeah, I've always been shy!" Then you'll start talking about it and soon you'll be great friends! And remember, there's a huge chance that if they don't say something to you first, htet're just as shy as you are!

[Ultimate Schnitzel]

hit them with a shovel, then say "oh my god, im so sorry!" and engage them in friendly conversation now that you have their attention. it's foolproof!

[Samantha Bean]

You guys, thank you so much! It's probably not going to be easy, but with all your combined advice, maybe I'll turn into this awesome social butterfly. coughnotlikelycough Or not, but at least I'll be more confident! =)