Funny, in all honesty, and I don’t mean to be rude or anything, but it sounds like you’re creating your own problem here. You’ve got a self fulfilling prophecy kind of thing happening where you’re already determined to have a terrible time going out to eat with friends/colleagues so you ensure that’s exactly what happens.
Try to be more easy going and patient, and try to make a connection with those around you. Going out to eat is rarely about the food, it’s about the company. And I agree, small talk is insufferable, but it helps establish a base from which you can launch into more significant or more intimate subjects of discussion. It’s a hoop to have to jump though in order to earn the rewards of camaraderie.
I appreciate the helpful advice. I have tried those already, and when I did, it felt like I was trying hard, so it still was not an enjoyable experience. I think it’s just not my thing. Some people don’t like eating out just like others don’t like going to ice cream palors, coffee shops, or bars.
But, I still go sometimes because I know people I care about like it, and I appreciate the encouragement to continue trying and the considerate advice 🙂
Funny, in all honesty, and I don’t mean to be rude or anything, but it sounds like you’re creating your own problem here. You’ve got a self fulfilling prophecy kind of thing happening where you’re already determined to have a terrible time going out to eat with friends/colleagues so you ensure that’s exactly what happens.
Try to be more easy going and patient, and try to make a connection with those around you. Going out to eat is rarely about the food, it’s about the company. And I agree, small talk is insufferable, but it helps establish a base from which you can launch into more significant or more intimate subjects of discussion. It’s a hoop to have to jump though in order to earn the rewards of camaraderie.
Good luck my anonymous friend – you can do it!
I appreciate the helpful advice. I have tried those already, and when I did, it felt like I was trying hard, so it still was not an enjoyable experience. I think it’s just not my thing. Some people don’t like eating out just like others don’t like going to ice cream palors, coffee shops, or bars.
But, I still go sometimes because I know people I care about like it, and I appreciate the encouragement to continue trying and the considerate advice 🙂