Talk to Strangers, One Stone at a Time
Save to PinterestTalking to a stranger can feel big, so we made it small. Follow the path in the picture, one stone at a time.
Step 1. Stop people
In the picture, she turns and lifts an open hand. That is the whole step. Pick one person who is not in a rush. Catch their eye, lift your open hand a little, and say one short line.
Say: "Excuse me, do you have a second?"
Step 2. Ask questions
Now you stand one step apart, and the speech bubbles in the picture are empty. Ask one easy question. Listen. Then ask one more about their answer.
Say: "I like your bag. Where is it from?"
Step 3. Use your body
In the picture you now face each other, shoulders open, arms relaxed, with a small spark of warmth. Turn toward them. Drop your shoulders. Let your arms hang. Smile.
Say: "Thanks, it was nice talking with you."
The exercise: Three Stones
This week, in a public place like a cafe, a park or a shop queue, talk to 3 strangers. For each one, use your stop line, ask 2 questions, and keep your body open.
If someone says no or looks busy, say "No problem" and walk away. A no is fine.
Write down after each talk: the place, yes or no, and how many questions you asked. Count your stones: 1, 2, 3.
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