I could say about a few things I notice about myself
- I generally don't get past small talk only when I am too much in my head not thinking about the other person. Whenever I start thinking about them, I generally get past that hurdle (given that other person is willing, too).
- Also, when I start judging people in my head, or trying to find out if being a friend with the OP would help me in someway, I lose the conversation.
This is what I try to do to fix it:
- I try to be humble - without even thinking of bragging about anything (even if I should :))
- take genuine interest (without crossing the line) in OP (e.g. work, education etc) and reduce 'I's from the conversation.
As johnny22 said, join an activity/class you like or have been thinking of taking, develop an interest, and talk to people, respect them, discuss the activity with them; and smalltalk generally leads to 'hi-hello' and gradually to friendship.
This is what I try to do to fix it: - I try to be humble - without even thinking of bragging about anything (even if I should :)) - take genuine interest (without crossing the line) in OP (e.g. work, education etc) and reduce 'I's from the conversation.
As johnny22 said, join an activity/class you like or have been thinking of taking, develop an interest, and talk to people, respect them, discuss the activity with them; and smalltalk generally leads to 'hi-hello' and gradually to friendship.
All the best.
edit: grammar