Have you ever engaged in a conversation with people after they have asked you a question and they give the strangest looks? Maybe they have asked, “So what have you been up to?” or “How are you doing?” As you begin to share your response they start looking at each other? I think at some point in time we have all experienced this. Some may even start to text (I know, how rude!).
The condition is called, “too much information.” This happens when you are sharing some of the good and/or bad things going on in your life with people who are just asking a question to strike a conversation. The strange look can be because they are either really not concerned with how you are doing or just want something to gossip about. The other reason for such a strange look is you are providing so much information that their brains “can’t handle it.”
I think the best way to avoid this situation is to provide a generic response. If they really want to know they will continue to ask questions. When this happens, only share one conversation piece. Whatever, you do, do NOT share more than two things you have going on and minimize the time you spend talking about those one or two things.
Why? Because sometimes people can deject negativity onto you. You may be excited about that new seminar you attended or the new business you started, but the discouraging words may be a joy killer. Remember, less stress in any shape, form or fashion is another step to a joyful and peaceful life!
