How to Know if You’re Boring

We’d all like to think we’re fabulously fascinating at all times. But it’s good to know the signs that you’re boring someone, just in case.

Step 1: Check out their eyes Check out the other person’s eyes. Are they darting around the room, as if looking for an escape? Or, worse, are they completely unfocused, as if they’ve lapsed into a coma?

Check out their feet, too; if they’re pointed away from you, they’re poised to run.

Step 2: Be aware of their responses Be aware of their responses. If your discourse isn’t eliciting anything more than polite nods, the occasional “really?” or a monotone “wow,” it’s time to change the topic — or let the other person speak.

Step 3: Watch for topic switches Watch out for sudden topic switches. If you’re waxing poetic about one topic, and your listener suddenly introduces a whole new one, consider that a clear sign you’re boring.

Avoid talking about your dreams. An informal study showed that most people find other people’s nocturnal fantasies a major snooze.

Step 4: Question a lack of questions Don’t assume that someone who isn’t interrupting you or asking questions is spellbound. More likely, they’ve mentally checked out of the conversation.

Step 5: Look into your heart If someone is boring you, look into your heart. Boredom is often a two-way street.

A 2009 study concluded that people who report that their lives are boring are more likely to die younger than those who find their lives interesting.