it's hard to quantify, but just my general attitude has made things smoother. Rather than rolling my eyes and trying to change the subject, i'll try to listen a

it's hard to quantify, but just my general attitude has made things smoother. Rather than rolling my eyes and trying to change the subject, i'll try to listen attentively and engage if i have something to contribute. I don't have any interest in listening to someone rattle on for hours, but a minute or two listening to something they're excited about, well, it goes a long way. A reply like "I'm not much of a sports fan, but that sounds amazing" is pretty effective. Just let people bask in the glory of whatever they love for a moment or two, sports, tv shows, how smart their kid is, vacation pictures, whatever. I guess, i wouldn't talk to people if they weren't important or interesting in the moment in some way, taking an interest in what they find interesting makes me feel more connected somehow.