13. Reading. Breaking the ice

 

 

Your new classmate seems very interesting and you'd like to get to know him or her better. The new neighbour does great bike tricks and you want him to show you how. But whenever comes the chance to talk the these people, you start to sweat, turn red in the face and avoid speaking up. You often have to break the ice to start a friendly conversation in different situations: moving to another place to live, going to a party where you don't know most of the people or moving to a new school.

 

Breaking the ice means doing or saying something that makes people who do not know each other feel more relaxed. You might feel uncomfortable or shy because you don't know how the other person will reply, but to break the ice means that you don’t let it upset you.

 

Don't worry! Most people feel awkward when meeting new people. If it's true for you, the tips below can help you.

 

 

Stay positive. Everyone likes to talk to cheerful and optimistic people. Try to find something good even in difficult situations and look on the bright side of things. People around you will benefit from your positive attitude. Stay confident. If you value yourself, others will value you too.

 

Listen to people and improve your listening skills. Don't speak only about your feelings and

don't interrupt other people. Ask people questions and show interest in others.

Talk to people, make friends. Don’t avoid meeting new people just because you feel shy. After some time you’ll get used to it. Sometimes it's difficult, but it’s worth it. Maybe the other person may want to talk to you — but be shy too!

 

 

1. Breaking the ice means doing or saying something that makes people who do not know each other feel more relaxed.

 

   

 

2. If you're a passionate and enthusiastic person, it'll be easy for you to have interesting conversations.

 

   

 

3. You should avoid new people.