Often we minimize the affect our words have on others, particularly in the age of social media.

Quick thoughts, quick responses, quick likes and dislikes to scatter across anyone’s pages we please. There’s a small value to this, not to mention a dopamine hit, but often an emptiness to it. It’s like if you’re at a party and all you do is discuss the weather – not a very enjoyable party.

It’s difficult for many of us say what we really want to talk about. Not just blunt opinions, but conversations that have meaning, provoke deeper thoughts, and perhaps might alter another’s thinking. Sometimes we don’t even know what that might be.

But these are the conversations worth having. Because the questions you have, might very well be the questions someone else is having.

So you waltz across the room and attempt to spark a talk about nuclear physics – but the other person responds with small comments then quickly walks away to find the drinks table. Does that mean your conversation was not worth having?

Of course not – you just need to find the right person to talk with.

To have better conversations, we need to find the best conversation partners.

Opportunities for conversation are aplenty – events, on social media, and even, at times, in person – and the number of people at the party is increasing. Not everyone is going to be an ideal partner. But it doesn’t mean they aren’t out there.

So how do you foster great conversations about the things you care about?

• Find your words.
• Find your party.
• Find your conversation partners.

So speak up – there’s no time better to start.