Awkward Silence

Welcome to the Lilyverse.

I have finally come up with a good intro. So be proud of me. The topic I wanted to rant discuss today is Awkward Silence. I happen to be a magnet for it. And not in a good way. I might be chatting casually with a friend when, without explanation, the silence ensues. I can't explain it at all! (Though it might explain why some people avoid talking to me).  Anyway, because it plagues me so much, I thought it might be time for another one of my totally reliable guides.
So, I proudly present ...

Lily's totally reliable guide for getting over Awkward Silence!

1. If the silence is really really awkward, just acknowledge it! Say something like 'That's awkward! I swear this always happens to me ... ' and then the two of you can bond over shared awkwardness.

2. Plan in advance! I know this sounds a little weird, but if you can plan in advance for a conversation, do it! Whenever I think I might meet my crush I plan ahead and think of questions I could ask him if we run out of things to say. Think along the lines of  'So have you seen the latest captain America movie?' or 'How is your exam preparation going?'

3. Don't get out your phone! Nothing says 'I really don't want to be here' more than checking your inbox.

4. If you feel like the conversation is ending, don't push it! Say a simple 'It was nice to talk to you! See you round!' and leave. This is my favoured option. As I am a total introvert at heart I prefer to leave rather than prolonging both of our suffering.

5. Comment on a shared experience. Something like: 'That service was really thought provoking' or 'Did that thunder wake you up last night?' or even 'Goldie will live on forever in all of our hearts. She was a wonderful fish.'  (I actually have had to use that last one. Don't even ask.)

6. Lastly, try and prevent the awkward silence in the first place by, a) Asking people about themselves the whole time, or b),  Not even entering in the conversation in the first place. Just kidding. Don't use that last one.

I hope this guide will help you on your way to social success! Just remember, awkward silence is inevitable sometimes, but you don't have to make it bigger than it already is.

Farewell, from Lily.