As with most things human, this is more complex that it might first seem.

Lots of people seem fine chatting to friends, yet struggle with family or vice versa.

Some can talk freely with a stranger, yet clam up with someone they know.

At the heart of the matter is how you perceive the exchange of words.

When we feel it’s an “easy” situation, we feel far freer to just talk.

When something strikes us as more important or consequential we often struggle.

The good news is that conversation is truly an art & an acquired skill.

The more you practice, the better you get.

You need to add some awareness to the process. So that you can know when you need to overcome a moment or situation that seems tricky.

The more often you do this & realise all is well after the conversation, the quicker you’ll learn that you’re competent to speak in all situations.

There are many ways to brush up your conversational skills.

Learn to ask good, open questions. Be curious.

Build on your knowledge in a variety of areas. It’ll give you a wider base of ideas to discuss.

Realise you’re just as important as anyone else on this planet. There’s no need to be overawed.

Care about each & every conversation. Be thoughtful, be open & you’ll enjoy all your encounters.