u/FactorNo2709

I’ve been trying to improve my conversation skills and I’ve been watching Vanessa Van Edwards. One thing she talks about is “breaking the script” instead of always asking “How are you?”

So lately I’ve tried asking things like:
“What exciting projects do you have coming up?”

In theory, it sounds like a good dopamine question. But I’ve noticed a lot of people answer with:
“Not much honestly.”

And now I’m wondering if the question accidentally has the opposite effect , like it subtly pressures people to prove their life is exciting.

I’m curious:
What questions actually lead to good conversations without making people feel put on the spot?

What are your favorite conversation starters?