am i boring?
Say you’re at a party and you meet someone new. And because you love to get to know new people, you keep the conversation going.
You ask if they live in the area. You ask how they know the hosts. You ask them if they’ve seen any new movies recently or read any good books. You ask if they’ve eaten any remarkable meals at any new restaurants?
You ask about their career and their hobbies. You ask what they did for the holidays and if they have any trips lined up for Spring Break. You ask about their family.
And then, when your brain is tired of thinking up questions you pat yourself on the back for being an awesome conversationalist. You stay silent for a minute as you get ready to answer a barrage of question similar to the ones you’ve just fired off. But then all you get is…awkward silence.
Yeah. I don’t understand that.
This happens to me often. I once asked Ali why but he just gave me a blank look and continued typing away. This shouldn’t surprise me seeing as the first day Ali and I met was pretty much the scenario above. So I did a little thinking and here’s what I came up with:
- I’m nosy and other people are not.
- I talk too much.
- Other people are self-absorbed and can’t be bothered to talk about anyone other than themselves.
I’m going to go with any one of these simply because the alternative – that I’m far less interesting than I thought – is unthinkable.
So “all of the above” it is.
LOL LOL LOL… some like us try too hard and talk too much {me thinks!}. Is there an ‘after the party’ picture of Maya and you? Just curious … and here we go again. Just proves that I talk too much AND am maybe nosy!
Hugs!!!
I have no after-party picture because we definitely looked exhausted. And Maya’s dress was full of cake. 🙂
A nice post! We all go thro’ the same rigmarole on parties:)
So it’s a universal situation?
So I met Gayatri from Double Expat and we were discussing how much we love your blog…you always say it as it is! I could have written this post! I’ve come to the conclusion that people are just self-absorbed…or at least that’s what I tell myself ha! And they’re also kinda stupid because they don’t realize what a great conversation they are missing out on by NOT asking me questions ;)!
Thank you for the compliment! And I hope that we will meet up one day as well!
Ah yes, I too can relate to that scenario. Another one is where you think you are having a great conversation with someone and then realise that you have been talking to that one person/couple for most of the night…and worry that they might have felt trapped into that conversation because they were too polite to just walk off!
Perhaps it is a combination of most people being either boring or self-absorbed and us trying too hard?
I think I try too hard. But I never quite realize that until later…that’s the problem!
Ameena, I get that a lot. Honest.
Tell you what, you gotta believe you are fine the way you are! And you are!
If someone was unable to strike a friendship with you, their loss babe! Not yours!
Smile!
I’m sorry that you experience this as well but I have to say it’s comforting to know that it’s not just me!
that happens to me too often, i think the ‘not-interested-in-making-conversation species’ is increasing in population. my biggest worry is after encountering too many of those kind im a bit scared its rubbing off on me, i might be turning into one of them 😦
I think I like to talk too much to turn into one of them! 🙂 I bet a lot of people wish I would turn into one of them though!
Clearly you are incredibly boring. So much so that hundreds of people tune in to see what randomness you are writing about day to day:)
It’s one thing to come to my blog to read about Ali and Maya’s shenanigans…it’s quite another to be trapped by my big mouth at a party.
Nonetheless, I appreciate the thought Ellen!
Happens to me always!!! There’s this really awkward pause and then I wish I could just disappear!! I wonder if the other person can feel the awkwardness!! By the way, Maya looks just like you in that picture!!
I wish I could disappear often. And I’m glad someone thinks Maya resembles me! Not many people do.
i prefer talking to the kids at a kid party. That keeps a lot of things simple
Funny…I drop my kid off with the balloon bunny and pick her up several hours later. I have zero interest in hanging out with the kids! 🙂
I’m with Ellen- boring you’re not. Other people are. I think the worst quality (there are many) is a lack of curiosity. To prove I’m curious I’d like to know about that 1st bday spread. Maybe the people were distracted by the buffet, that’s some buffet.
In addition to this stunning fruit table, there were about 5 more tables laden with all kinds of amazing food. I just wanted to sit for hours and eat!
You’re definitely not boring! And aside from the lousy guests, it looks like a fun party!
It was a fantastic party…and there was just one unfriendly guest. Luckily the rest were fantastic!
I’m crappy at starting conversations. So of someone starts…I’m good to go.
Ps. That bunny is really effing creepy. How would you like that thing popping out of your closet at 3am?
Thank you! Exactly what I was going to post – Easter bunny costumes creep me out!! They always look crazy and scary. If I were a child, I would scream and run away.
Also? I’m okay at starting conversations one-on-one, but not in finding people like me that make me want to keep the conversations going. And I suck in groups of people. 😛
Clowns creep me out but I am 100% okay with bunnies. And this one seemed quite talented with the balloons!!
We all have our quirks, right?
I don’t think it’s you! I think many people are social self-conscious and unable to hide it (myself included at times). The ability to converse with almost anyone, even if you sometimes receive blank stares, is a gift!
I’m going to look at my big mouth as a gift from now on…it sure beats wishing I knew when to shut up!
I’m often surprised by this myself, Ameena. You wonder why people even answer your questions if they’re not interested in a conversation. It’s one of the reason that I now tend to be very cautious about talking to people in this kind of setting. I think I’m too nosy also. I have to control myself.
So the question is how to I control myself? I wish some of Ali’s indifference would rub off on me…
People are incredibly self-absorbed. For example that person probably walked away thinking they know so much more about you and had this incredible conversation. Which they did not.
First birthday party, huh?
Yes…first birthday party. Crazy, right?
Anyone who reads one post of this blog knows you are anything but boring!
Well thank you Liz! I appreciate you saying so.
I would never call you boring. But can we talk about the food display? Omg. I’m SO glad that baby is going to remember how spectacular it was because WOW. That is all.
Children’s first birthdays are never about the children. It makes no difference if they remember it or not.
I learned this when Maya turned 1!
You’re definitely not boring—a lot of people are just self-absorbed. I also think some others may not be used to others taking an interest in them/making conversation.
I had an awkward encounter at an event last month with someone whom I thought was annoying by talking to them while they were trying to eat cheese.
“Well, I should let you get back to…” I said.
“You’re not imposing. Look around—you’re the only one here who’s come up to talk to me!”
“Huh. Oh yeah.” And then we had a really nice conversation.
By the way, that’s quite an impressive spread for a first birthday party!
I’m glad that your socially awkward situation took a turn for the better. I wish more of mine did that!!
Oh, you’re not boring. I’m pretty lively at functions, so I’ve been asked by hosts to “talk to so-and-so. You’re good at getting people to come out of their shell.” I suppose that’s a compliment, but I do it anyway. Usually by the end of the evening, that person is dancing on the tables and being the life of the party. They just needed someone to ignite them. However, it sounds like the folks you’ve come across have no fire. They are boring; not you!
Dancing on the tables, huh? You have an amazing gift my friend!
its them, not you. i’m pretty positive about that one.
that was a babys 1st bday?! wow.
Thanks Daisy…glad you think so.
Ugh, I hate when it is like pulling teeth to have an actual back and forth conversation with someone. Whenever I encounter anyone like that I always give up and move on. Life is to short to deal with people who don’t get that conversing is a back and forth not a listen to me quiz you thing.
Yes…conversing is supposed to be back and forth! Not sure why other people don’t get that…
Yes, I know what you mean, definitely not because # 1 & 2 though, it’s # 3. People just sometimes do not know how respond. You my friend, is.not.boring!
Have a great weekend!
Thank you Lydia! I hope you have a fantastic weekend as well.
–Ameena,
~~ It’s. Not. You.
Apparently, you are talking to the wrong people!
I can’t stand talking to those idiots who you -give give give- & they give you nothing back…
They are the individuals who are “Bo000000ring.”
xx
I definitely hate giving and not getting anything back. I’m super shallow like that. 🙂
No. Boring? No. I always get a little kick when you have a new post out. And you know I would have hooked up with you in Paris if I could have.
I think they are just too dull and self-absorbed.
Thanks Jennie! So glad you get a kick out of my new posts. 🙂
I think it’s hair envy. Most definitely.
Hair envy? You are the best – thank you for saying so!
Wow! That is some 1 year old party. some people really are super self centered and truly don’t care a darn about getting to know anyone knew even if it is just to chat it up at a party. Once I know people are like that I’m usually done. I stop talking to them b/c it annoys me when people only want to talk about themselves.
Somehow I don’t get it until I’m done asking 1,000 questions. If I could catch on a bit earlier I’d save myself a lot of energy…
Try just standing there after the awkward silence and letting it sit over the group as long as possible. If the person wants silence, give them the opportunity to enjoy it and then see how socially awkward they are.
I admire your ability to handle awkward situations. You’d think that as your older sister I’d have a better knack for it but really, you are way better at it.
Based on how many people read your blog and your wit I think it is them not you. But who cares on the other hand, next time either ignore them or ask them really uncomfortable questions during the silence like “when was the last time you have taken a shower?”.
I would have been shunned from the party if I’d asked that question! I can’t even imagine…I am unable to say anything uncomfortable. Intentionally anyway…
I don’t think my high school graduation party had as much food total as there was fruit at that party! The balloon bunny also threw me off…interesting.
There are too many self-absorbed people in the world, and they all tend to not care much about the other half of the conversation that doesn’t involve them. The worst part is when they ask you a question, you answer, and your answer inspires them to talk more about their lives and stories they have. It’s a horrid cycle.
Also, I would never call you nosy. You’re a blogger/writer…asking questions is typical for us. 🙂
Someone once said that the problem with certain people is that they aren’t listening to you because they are simply trying to think of the best way to swing the conversation back to them again.
It is a horrid cycle!
I always seem to find the ones who DO want to talk when I don’t want to talk to them – aka) stuck in an elevator together or while in the bathroom (not okay, don’t talk to me then!).
Agreed. I do NOT want to talk to someone in a bathroom.
Too bad Maya hasn’t figured this out yet…
Ok first off, that is quite a first birthday party! For my oldest’s, we threw a blanket out back, let him dive into a cake shaped like a duck and had a couple close pals look on for fun. Partying at it’s finest. I hate the awkward silence. The only time I don’t seem to have that problem is on an airplane. 9 times out of 10 I can’t get the person to shut up!
I have the same problem on planes…except that it’s usually Maya or Ali who won’t stop talking my ear off!!
Okay, im SO happy yo know that I’m not the only one that this happens too! Why are we too nice/polite? I think it’s a combination of people trying to act “cool” + something as simple as a lack of manners. If you were boring, a polite person would return the question anyways. Maybe we should hang out- I’d love to meet someone new who’d carry on a fun conversation!
We would have the BEST conversation Nuha! When I meet fellow bloggers it’s never awkward because we have tons of things to talk about, especially blog-related topics.
This happened to me just last month. And I felt pathetic after that. I started wondering what kind of impression I gave out. Anyway, I have come to realize that just because I am nice and like to talk, doesn’t mean the other person also likes to.
And No, you are not boring!:)
Agreed. I have to realize that I just talk more than most people so I can’t take it personally when people don’t reciprocate!
I’m the same way. Meeting somebody new but not having a conversation bothers me… And so I ask a string of questions so that there wouldn’t be any awkward silences but a lot of people just answer to the point. Trust me, I could care less about what books they read or movies they watch, but I always hope we could hit it off at some point. Bah, doesn’t work with a lot of people. I should stop trying so hard.
I feel like I need to get along with everyone in the world. I need to stop trying so hard too…
I like to think of myself as mysterious when i walk out of a conversation having gathered information about others without giving away much of my own. Definitely not boring 🙂
And i wouldn’t want to talk when there’s such awesome food on offer!
I love your take on this! Very clever approach…I’m going to think of it in this light going forward…
haha.. first conversations are usually difficult, but either you click with someone or you don’t, and sometimes there is a second chance. I’d like to think that some people have no social skills or may be shy. the worst is when you have to entertain extended family members who would rather not know anything about you.
Extended family members can be the worst offenders…I really don’t understand why?
Stop. You’re not allowed to fish for compliments. All you need to do is look at your blog stats and comments. We all find you fascinating.
Fascinating? Really? I’m so glad you think so Deena!
Sometimes people just can’t carry the (conversation) ball. I personally am terrible at making conversations with new people in general, but especially if they aren’t into a little back-and-forth because I am way too introverted and self-absorbed to carry an entire conversation on my own.
Okay so I guess some people are just introverted. That is valid. I should remember that the next time I’m annoyed…
You are obviously talking to the wrong people because there are so many who can’t get enough of you. I am nosy too and love getting to know people. I am like an interviewer that way, you & anyone else could talk my ear off and I would love it.
How nice are you?
I really think we should meet up. We’d have the most fantastic conversation!!
I am pretty good at asking people questions … I like to think of it as curiousness 🙂
Ditto. I excel at asking questions!
I think it’s awesome that you make an effort to get to know people. I do the same thing, and rarely is it ever reciprocated. I often wonder if it’s intimidating to some people when you are comfortable striking up conversation, but either way, at least you tried. Also you have free reign to talk smack about them now.
And holy sh*t that’s for a 1 year old?
I’m so relieved I can talk smack now…I was just waiting and waiting for someone to give me the go ahead… 🙂
Yes…a 1 year old. Crazy, right?
I absolutely suck at small talk. I find it boring and straining. If I’m at a party, I’m happy if I find somebody to dive into an interesting topic with, otherwise I won’t stay long. And that’s the tragical truth. Haha. I think we’d have a lot to talk about, though, I can’t imagine you’re boring. Even if you make up small talk question. Those are just the opening for the dive! 😀
I like deep conversation but sometimes people don’t give me much to work with. So small talk it is!
ALL OF THE ABOVE! I am paid to converse. Sort of. I am in sales, so I do a lot of entertaining. I think that a lot of people are just socially awkward. If we ever meet I will ask you tons of questions!
I admire you for being in sales…it’s the hardest job in the world!
I usually attribute it to the other person being intimidated by the awesomeness they already sense radiating off me. Obviously.
Well I know firsthand that you are awesome…so obviously is right.
Or maybe the people you talk to are extremely shy or not sure what questions to ask? Maybe you intimidate them, haha 🙂
That’s a gorgeous fruit display, and I prefer balloon bunnies over clowns :P!
I can’t imagine that I could intimidate anybody! But that’s definitely something to think about…
Looks like y’all had a great time! You’re both so beautiful. 🙂
Why thank you Anne! You are very sweet.
I’m going to add 4) other people are shy and socially awkward.
Because I think there are a number of people who just freeze up in social situations and don’t do their share of the question asking.
I guess I shouldn’t be so hasty to judge because I know there are shy people out there. But this person? Didn’t seem like one of them.
Okay, then – she’s a goober.
I’m the same way. Husband sometimes tells me I’m nosey, but I call it curious and inquisitive. 🙂
I like inquisitive…I’m going to call myself that going forward.
You…boring??? IMPOSSIBLE!!!! Definitely THEY are boring! (those people who don’t have the sense to ask YOU some questions)
Anjuli – you are the best! Thank you for this. 🙂
For me, I am just too poor of a conversationalist to get someone talking. I do okay if the other person leads the conversation, but I don’t do well if i have to run the show
I usually can’t run the show but when it comes to asking questions I can’t seem to stop myself! 🙂
For sure, you are not boring, here on this blogging party platform.
“Blogging party platform.” I love it.
Love Maya’s dress. I am guessing you are her stylist. 🙂
I wish. My MIL gave Maya that dress. The cutest part about it is that it came with a mini-version for Maya’s doll. Too cute.
The answer is totally all of the above!
I may not initiate a conversation but I will definitely follow-up w/ similar questions if somebody has gone through the trouble of getting to know me!
Katie 🙂
That’s all I want! Similar questions…not too much to ask, is it?
I always ask a million questions as well…sometimes it’s reciprocated, sometimes it’s not, and yet that never stops me from talking! 🙂 I think we’d get along great!
I agree. 🙂
Ameena!! My husband and I talk about this all- the- time!!!! I always want to learn so much about people. My thinking is, “you never know what this person has to offer, good advice, a new everlasting friendship, good cooking tips, I mean the list could go on and on!!!”
But, then same thing, so much of the time the questions don’t come back. And people don’t seem that interested? Not all of the time, but more than not.
My husbands reasoning is that I’m savvier than most at having conversations. Does he mean one way conversations? Because if that’s the case, then, yes I am…… 🙂
Take care, and have a great Sunday,
Shauna
I think we are both quite savvy at conversing. Imagine if we met in real life? We’d have so much to talk about!
Thanks Shauna…I hope you have a great Sunday as well!
Clearly it’s #3. Clearly.
Clearly! 🙂
That happens to me all the time with my co-workers. I kid you not, when I came back from Hawaii engaged, one co-worker that I talked with regularly told me that he didn’t even know I had a boyfriend.
….SERIOUSLY?
The only thing I can think of, is that these people must not have anyone else in their life who takes the time to listen to them. So our conversations with them are the equivalent of free therapy. Because otherwise, none of it makes sense at all.
I’m going to roll with what you said in paragraph 2. Because I agree…otherwise it makes no sense at all!
Thank you Ameena, thank you! You have solved my puzzle why on earth I’m not good with getting to know people. I always thought asking too many questions is rude, and now I realise that it is just curious and showing the willingness to get to know the person. How do you come up with all these great questions? I really, truly need to learn it.
Maybe asking too many questions is considered rude…I guess my Indian upbringing doesn’t allow me to believe this though!! In India it appears that no topic is off limits. No. Topic.
And I don’t think my questions are really great? They just seem to come pretty easily. I can’t stop myself!
I love making conversations. But I am also aware that I often find myself being surrounded by people with baby questions. Why are people so nosy?!?!
Now that’s one question I NEVER ask. Ever.
Holy birthday party! It looks like it was a beautiful day for an outdoor event.
I have to admit I’m not always the best when it comes to meeting new people. I’m shy. But I love meeting new people who talk a lot – I find that it’s easier for me to talk to them and ask questions. It sounds like you’re a great stranger to meet!
Not to pat myself on the back or anything but I consider myself very approachable. 🙂 I am a good stranger to meet!
Lol, I talk too much too. I’ll chat with you anytime. 🙂
I can’t wait. One day!
awwww….patience my dear friend…and then maybe they think you are too smart and worry about falling flat with normal questions and lose face…so they prefer to stay mum.
You keep trying-and give up when you feel they are not worth it:-)
Me too smart? Hah. I with a group of super brilliant Indian/Pakistani people so I know that wasn’t the problem… 🙂
you are so cute, and classic…loved this post! people are def self absorbed! and you are too nice to continue to meet new people at parties…i keep finding myself sticking to the oldies. seriously, so hard to make new relationships anymore when you try so hard to maintain the old ones.
you rock for trying;) xoo
So true. I’m lucky to have a fantastic friend like you! Really, there is no need to meet un-talkative strangers. 🙂
I love Maya’s dress! She looks so pretty. The young man in the floral shirt is also rather well turned out. I face the same problem sometimes…But I have come to realize that some people just do not like meeting or talking to new people. Like, they would rather make an imaginary conversation with my 10-month old son…you know, Hi baby! And how old may we be? Than respond to my hellos. Oh well. I think the aforementioned people are just…cliquey and boring and too lazy. Their loss!
I’m totally laughing at the conversation with a 10-month-old. So true!
You are anything but boring my friend! Love that pic of you two, so pretty…maybe the are just jealous 😉
Hope you are having a wonderful weekend!
Thank you! You leave the nicest comments. 🙂
Hi Ameena,
That’s a lovely picture of Maya and you. Love her dress, very pretty. Wow, that must have been some party. The dessert table looks wonderful!
I like to socialise and make friends but sometimes I get the feeling people are not that responsive, I just back off.
Thank you Asmita! And I need some tips on how to back off. 🙂
Well, it’s definitely not YOU. I’d love to meet you at a party! And I’d ask you a million nosy questions back!
I’d love to answer your nosy questions. Anytime.
I would have gone with option three. People really ARE self absorbed. I would love to meet you at a party and ask you a zillion questions. Those goofballs dont know what they are missing. Love your outfit, by the way.
Thank you Andrea! I’d love to meet you at a party too! Hopefully one day??
hey ameena nice post 🙂 Just strolled by this blog and i dont know what made me to check it again….but love reading your blog..:) Wish u loads of Gudluck .
Btw u and ur daughter looking cute in above pic.
Thank you Saira! For the compliment and for dropping by. 🙂
You are far from boring Ameena! I think the popularity about your blog is a testament to that. I think most people are actually very self absorbed so I wouldn’t take their disinterest to heart – it’s their loss for not getting to know you IMO.
Thanks Nada…you made me feel a million times less boring. 🙂
I think its the self absorption. People only want to talk about themselves. As soon as the conversation shifts, they’re done.
So true! And the shift is inevitable…
I feel your pain! I’ve been in that situation many times as well! People are just too self absorbed to care about anyone but themselves!
So sorry you’ve in the situation! It’s no fun.
I think some people are just shy when meeting new people.
it’s not you!
I agree that some people are shy and I can try to overlook that. But this person? Was not shy! 😦
well, your posts makes me laugh and i can clearly see the sense of humor you have. So, how can you be boring! I think you are a fun person to hang around with 🙂
Thanks Kankana – so glad I can make you laugh. 🙂
I know this isn’t your point, but I think you can be convinced that you’re not boring when your blog posts always have hundreds of comments!!
And frankly, this happens to me all the time, too. I’m naturally very curious about other people’s stories. And I think I’m a bit reserved–I don’t like to blather my stuff at people unless asked (which is why I always ask others about themselves), but not everyone has that as a social skill. I’ve often found when I’ve drummed up the energy/courage/whatever to talk about myself, people are more responsive than I would have anticipated.
All I know is that when I met up with you after probably 10 years I had the most fantastic conversation with you! For hours. So I think you are a great conversationalist.
In any case, I think I need to learn to be a bit more reserved. I’m going to work on that…
You are absolutely not boring. I think the other person is clearly selfish and wants to talk about him/herself only. Unfortunately, this happens to me all the time and the other person doesn’t seem bothered by it at all.
Sometimes I think social cues are apparent only to me…
That’s such a peeve of mine. I hate one-sided conversations, and try to make a speedy exit if I’m hitting brick wall with small talk communication.
I need to learn your exit strategy…please share Sam!!
oh my god!! That happens to me too and I have always wondered how wrong I’m. Just to know that you go through the same, makes me feel better 😀
I’m so surprised how many people can relate to this!!
My worst moments are the pauses between conversations. If it goes silent I panic and start babbling even more. I could talk for Scotland and I do! So if someone doesn’t speak I’m happy coz it just means I get to talk more. 😉
I think I need therapy. 😉
Oh no my friend…I’m the one who needs therapy! 🙂
we should both go together… but the therapist might need some therapy later lol 😛
Ameena,
You’re not boring – they are just self absorbed assholes.
You and Maya are gorgeous. Seriously. Can I have hair like yours (federic fekkai’ed and all).
kiran
You do NOT want hair like mine. Trust me! After all the color and Japanese straightening that I go through … handling my hair is like a full-time job.
But you are unbelievably sweet for leaving this comment!! Thank you. 🙂
Ameena,
Didn’t I tell you we had a lot in common? I went through Japanese straightening for years and now do the brazillian straightenings, though I let my hair go casually wavy *after artfully arranging it just so* When I was in high school and other girls dreamed of dating hot stud muffins, I invested all my energy into hoping for straight hair.
So yeah, I get it. Try the brazillians – they rock (though I think we might die from it. But if we die, we will have great hair when we go).
Ditto. I’ve wasted so much time and energy into my hair! If only I’d studied as much – I swear I’d be a zillionaire by now.
I have yet to try the Brazillian straightening – I figure if the Japanese is working so well I probably shouldn’t test the waters… 🙂
Wait! You’re not leaving Akira are you?
NEVER! Are you kidding? I’d leave Ali before I left Akira. 🙂
Wow. What is with people?
Since you’re asking questions to keep the conversation going, you’re definitely not the one who is boring. And I’d like to think nosy is when personal questions are asked, not general/casual ones like you asked. Having said that, I don’t think you were/are nosy either. 🙂
I am not good at initiating or continuing conversations well with new people. At a recent get-together I went to play with kids when the women talked stuff that didn’t interest me, and did that back & forth. Silly, may be, but neither did I want to feel awkward, nor get bored 😀
My mom says the same thing actually, that she’d rather be with the kids than some of the people her age. I totally get it!! 🙂
that was probably more expensive than my wedding. Jesus. Anyways, I’m way too talkative too…I realize that I do not “fit in” with Glenn’s new social circle cause I’m not the quiet, skinny, dr’s wife…I’m a loud short lady who loves to yell and be nosy!
This was probably more expensive than my wedding too!
And I love that you aren’t the traditional doctor’s wife…you are my favorite type of person to talk to!