Q&A for How to Talk to a Friend

Slowly step out of your comfort zone. Start with a simple "hello" in the hallways, even if it makes your heartbeat speed up. It makes it easier to eventually be extremely outgoing.

Talk about anything that's on your mind, such as sports or hobbies you're interested in, books that you have recently read, movies or shows you've seen that you would recommend to others, stuff that's happening at school, plans for the weekend, etc. Make sure to ask your friends about their lives rather than just talking about yourself.

Just talk naturally to her about your day. Ask her about hers and start from there.

Start a conversation by them by going up and saying "Hi!". Ask them a question, make sure it isn't too personal and one they can actually answer. Don't be scared to go up to people, it shows you are friendly, confident, and kind.

Just bring up some random stuff to talk about, it helps build a relationship if it is especially funny!

If you have a friend who's struggling with something, you can make a really big difference by talking and listening to them. Let them know that you're there for them and they're not alone. Even if you don't understand exactly what your friend is going through, you can still let them know you’re there to support them. Reassure them that they’re not alone and that you’re there to listen and help them if they need it. Try to listen to them without judgment. You don’t need to agree with what they’re saying or what they did, but remember that all people make mistakes. The best thing you can do for them is listen to them without attacking or judging them, even if they did something bad. If they need help getting through something, ask them if you can help and what you can do. They may feel too scared or nervous to ask on their own, so you can take the pressure off of them by asking them yourself.

Sometimes a friendly conversation can really turn someone around. When you see someone who's feeling down, try saying hello. That'll give you the chance to start up a conversation. Bring up personal details in the conversation, which can let them know that you care about them and you remember things about their life. Think about things your friend told you in the past. Recall these details and ask your friend about them to show that you hear them when they speak, which can get them actively engaged in the conversation. Make sure you give them a chance to talk, too. After you make a point or ask a question, give your friend a chance to respond. Likewise, when they ask you something, try to give more than a one-word answer. Keep the conversation balanced and fair. If they still seem upset, you can try asking them what's wrong. If they don't want to talk about it, you can tell them that you're here for them and you're willing to listen if and when they do want to talk about it. Just being there for someone can help cheer them up.

Probably the easiest way is to simply walk up to them and say hi! Nodding, smiling, and waving at your friends are all friendly gestures, but these don’t start conversations. Saying “hello” to a friend when you see them in the hall or around your neighborhood gives you the chance to start a friendly conversation. After you greet them, try following up by asking them how they're doing. Be sincere and give them your full attention. Listen to them whenever they talk, and if they ask you something, be reciprocal and give them more than a one-word answer. Keep your body language friendly by leaning forward a little, keeping your shoulders open, your arms uncrossed, and looking your friend directly in the eye, which can let them know that you're open and receptive to the conversation. You may be surprised how easy it is to keep a conversation with a friend going. Usually, it's just getting it started that's the tricky part!