Expert: Kate - 10/5/2006

Question
Hi Kate,
   I'm 16 and I think I can be an awkward person sometimes. Not in my manner but just because I can't really carry a conversation. Like if I'm interested and I;m with a good friend-no big deal. But even so, I'm not much of a talker. A lot of silences happen on the phone and stuff and it sucks. So, how do I carry on a conversation? I'm not really a shy person, I just don't out-right talk unless I'm listening and responding to someone else. What's wrong with me? I wanna be able to talk about the stuff that matters with people!

Thanks in advance
Anie


Answer
I know it sounds stupid, but write down a list of things to talk about before you get on the phone. That way if there's a awkward moment, you can flip to your notes and come up with another conversation topic. The only way to become a "talker" is to just keep at it, and one day you'll be great at it. You are also very young, most people find themselves at an awkward stage around 15-17. This is because you are starting to take charge of your life...like your parents aren't telling you what to think/do.