Dinner time conversation shouldn't be a strain. While it is natural to talk about your day or the meal, there are many other great topics that can fill the void. Remember some of these ideas the next time you are out on a date and want to avoid awkward silences. Another possibility is to copy each of the ideas onto the back of old business cards and set them in card holders at the dinner table to keep the conversation flowing.
Topics and Questions for Starting Coversations
- What would you like to accomplish this year?
- What subject do you wish you knew more about?
- What are you thankful for today?
- What is something you have a hard time doing?
- What is a bad habit you have?
- Tell us something you think everyone should know about you.
- What are you most proud of?
- What makes you laugh the most?
- What is one thing you regret?
- Tell an embarassing story.
- Describe your father in three words.
- Describe your mother in three words.
- Tell us about the last dream you remember.
- Where would be a terrible place to find yourself tomorrow?
- What is the best birthday you've ever had?
- What was the most annoying thing that happened to you today?
- What surprised you most about today?
- If you could pick a new name for yourself, what would it be?
- What is your favorite snack food?
- What fiction book do you wish were true?
- If you were to write a book, what would it be about?
- What movie would you like to have been in?
- What irrational fears do you have?
- What is your favorite fall activity?
- What would you do on a perfect summer day?
- When you are sad, what is one thing you do to make yourself feel better?
- What do you wish you could see from out your bedroom window?
- What makes you a good friend?
Tips on Starting Conversations
When starting a conversation, the most important thing is to know your audience. If you are having a job interview over lunch, you probably don't want to start off by telling an embarrassing story about yourself or asking the interviewer to tell you one about him or herself. If you are having a dinner with children you can modify the questions to their level, such as "What cartoon character would you like to trade places with for one day?". If you are gathered around the table with extended family at the holidays, you may want to avoid such questions as, "What annoyed you most about today?" and substitute it with something such as, "Who in our family has done the bravest thing?" and give an example.
Keeping the conversation rolling at dinner should be enjoyable and not a strain. And if you suddenly draw a blank and get stuck for topics, you can always talk about the weather.
Kelly Whitt - I have been a professional writer for more than a decade, covering many topics from science-based articles to do-it-yourself home ...
