this always turns into such an insightful question. most people have no idea what i’m talking about at first, but when i explain, i end up learning so much about people! (plus i get to be a PI.FYI evangelist hehe) hobbies i never knew about, interests that occupy a lot of their brain space, their priorities in terms of what they think people should know about, etc.
I love to ask what people are currently “in to” - meaning current inspirations, fixations, interests, etc. 1. It’s subtle but revealing- I now know what you are interested in and get a hint at how you view life (ex. some interests can be perceived as narcissistic/surface level vs. thoughtful/curious) *Granted, not eveyone will have a good answer (or may not even be able to answer) and that will tell you all you need to know!! 2. Naturally we love to talk about ourselves and our passions so it will certainly keep the conversation going. Extra points for asking questions about what they say (maybe you’re interested, maybe you’re not- but at least it’s not awkward anymore)
I love asking friends family strangers on the internet questions I could surely answer for myself. It keeps a conversation going, or is a fantastic start. I think it can also give ppl a chance to show off and talk about stuff they’re passionate about.
asking this when meeting someone new, fun discovery process for both parties! instead of “so what do you do for work?” or for the collegiates: “what’s your major?” this question serves the choose-your-own-adventure purpose because not everyone is afforded/prefers a stable job or education. it also allows you to get to know someone better, maybe they’re going to tell you about the 200 plants they take care of, or the profound though they’ve been stuck on. or, maybe they will think you’re weird and just tell you what they do for work, which is fine too, because it also answers the question. plus, people get excited when you ask them this. it’s unconventional in those early stages, cool points awarded brethren.