Exchanging text messages is a great way to stay in touch when you can't meet someone in person. However, sometimes it is very difficult to maintain a conversation. If you don't want to end the conversation yet, but the message is feeling bland, you might be able to give it a boost by changing the subject or revisiting something that was discussed earlier. Not sure where to start? Don't worry – we've put together a list of things you can use to keep your texting conversations interesting and fun.
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Method 1 of 13: "What have you been up to lately?"
Step 1. Use the ancient method that has been proven to work like this
It sounds simple, but people often don't get a chance to talk about themselves. Let the other person know that you are genuinely interested in their activity and expect them to open up. He may be working on an interesting project or in serious trouble – whatever he says, build your conversation from there by asking follow-up questions. If this doesn't work, move on to another topic.
Remember, ask the other person open-ended questions instead of questions that can be answered with a "yes" or "no". For example, you might ask “What did you do today?” instead of “You had a great day, didn't you?”
Method 2 of 13: "Tell me about…"
Step 1. Continue something he has said before
One way to rekindle the conversation is to discuss things that have been discussed previously. You already know the other person is interested in talking about it. So ask him to provide more details. It shows that you are a good listener – and if you are attracted to that person, you will automatically appear more attractive to them.
- Say something like “What did you end up eating? Nice?"
- You might say, “You said you were planning a trip this weekend. Where do you want to go?"
Method 3 of 13: "What have you been watching a lot lately?"
Step 1. Relive the conversation while asking for watch recommendations
If you don't know what message to send, try to find out what books, shows, or music the other person likes. If you don't know about a recommended book or show, ask more about it.
This method works especially well if he mentions spending a lot of time at home watching television, reading books, or listening to podcasts. Say something like “I'm looking for a great podcast, where do I start?” or “I need a new show, do you have any recommendations?”
Method 4 of 13: "What do you think about…?"
Step 1. Relive the conversation by asking the other person's opinion
Most people like to give opinions on various things. Take advantage of this by asking questions that allow your friend to express their views. Just avoid topics that are too serious – debates around politics and religion can sometimes get heated and can be misunderstood when delivered in text messages. To be safe. Look for something lighter.
Say something like “Okay, I need a serious opinion. Honestly, do you prefer waffles, pancakes or toast? There is only one correct answer."
Method 5 of 13: "Today I learned that…"
Step 1. Lead the conversation by talking about yourself a little
Don't continue to pressure the other person to talk about him – if forced, this can make him feel like he's being interrogated. If you need a subject, talk about something interesting you've been doing lately. Hopefully, your friends will respond and ask some follow-up questions!
- For example, you could talk about something cool you learned at school, tell a funny story, or mention that you've seen a rainbow for three days in a row.
- If you haven't been doing anything lately, talk about something else that's going on around you. For example, maybe your little sister accidentally dyed the dog's fur with purple marker, or maybe a new neighbor has moved in near your house.
- You don't know what can spark a conversation. So, don't be afraid to come up with random topics!
Method 6 of 13: "You're really smart…."
Step 1. Compliment him
Giving compliments to the other person is never wrong. If the conversation feels stuck, tell him what you like about him. Even casual compliments can encourage your friend to open up further.
- For example, you can appreciate his qualities by saying something like, “You always support me when I'm sad. You're the best friend!" or “I miss your sweet smile.”
- You can also mention an item of hers that you like, such as “Your new jacket yesterday was really cool. You look handsome when you wear it!”
Method 7 of 13: "Let's guess what happens next…"
Step 1. Lure your friends with a curious story
Sometimes, it takes a little push to lure someone into an exciting conversation. Try to spark the interest of your interlocutor by provoking his curiosity. Just make sure you leave a strong follow-up comment so he doesn't get disappointed!
- If you have a fun story to share, open it up by saying something like “Something crazy happened at my work today” or “You won't believe who I met today!”
- It can also be a fun way to let your friend know that you care about them. For example, if you eat at his favorite restaurant, say "Guess where I am now!" (additional points if you volunteer to bring food).
Method 8 of 13: "Have you ever… as a child?"
Step 1. Get to know your interlocutor by asking about his childhood
If you're texting someone you haven't known for a long time, but feel comfortable communicating with them, ask them questions about their childhood. This will help you get to know him better, from his family background to the things he likes. Just remember that childhood memories are often emotional so you shouldn't try to pry into anything too personal.
Ask light questions, such as “Who was your favorite Disney princess as a child?” or “Did you have any unique holiday traditions as a child?”
Method 9 of 13: "Do you remember when we….?"
Step 1. Tell a joke you all know or a funny memory
Make your friends smile by discussing the funny memories you had together. This could be an experience that you and an old friend haven't talked about in a long time, or something as silly as what a waitress said when you were out on a date. Just make sure your story sounds funny to both of you – your interlocutor can get annoyed if you laugh at something he or she finds embarrassing.
If you don't have a story to work with, try sending a funny meme to that person
Method 10 of 13: "I was just thinking…."
Step 1. Just convey a random idea that comes to your mind
The idea doesn't have to sound cool or clever – just say it as it is. If you don't censor yourself, the idea might sound interesting. As a bonus, you'll find out if your friend thinks similar to yours.
For example, you might say "I wonder why human hair didn't evolve purple" or "You know that our math class smells like custard?"
Method 11 of 13: "Do you want to make a video call?"
Step 1. Change the mood of the conversation by calling the other person
If you feel that text messages don't convey your meaning well, ask if they'd like to make a call or take a video call. You can get a more personal atmosphere this way, especially if you want to talk about something important that can't be conveyed via text.
If your interlocutor says he's busy, you'll know why your conversation seems to be slowing down
Method 12 of 13: Do nothing
Step 1. Wait a moment before sending the message
Sometimes, short message conversations will slow down when your interlocutor is busy or bored. He might as well be thinking about something. Instead of trying to fill the conversation gap with a new message, give the other person space so he can make a decision to continue the conversation, which will end it for a while.
You don't have to keep him quiet and don't turn this into a game, for example you decide to send him a new message if he doesn't reply after 17 minutes. Find something else to do for a while and see if the person still wants to talk
Method 13 of 13: "We'll talk later, okay?"
Step 1. End the conversation that feels stuck
If the person you're messaging with sends you short responses or takes a long time to reply, they may want to stop texting. But instead of just letting it go, provide a clear closing with a "see you later!" This will also make it easier for you to start a new conversation after a day or two.
