Better Conversation Week is celebrated during the week of Thanksgiving and this year, it takes place from November 24 to 30. Founded by Lauren Ekroth, the holiday encourages everyone to have more open, meaningful conversations with their loved ones.
It also creates awareness about the benefits of better conversation and shows that while talking about your feelings and thoughts can be challenging, it doesn’t have to be.
History of Better Conversation Week
The art of conversation is dying out. In fact, we’ve lost the ability to truly engage and connect with others outside the rectangular frames of our electronic devices. But connections are fundamental to human experience. Conversations deepen relationships and form connections where none previously existed. Throughout history, conversations have started and even ended full-scale wars, and when done right, they can transform our world for the better.
By avoiding conversation or stumbling through conversations, we risk getting misinterpreted or misunderstood. At the same time, we miss the chance to connect with others — to know their fears, happiness, and deep-seated vulnerabilities, and let them know ours.
Better Conversations Week hopes to change how we approach conversations, at home or elsewhere. You don’t need to be a natural conversational wizard to have memorable chats. You don’t have to be the life of the party, either.
Great conversations stem from listening (no, really listening) and building it from there. Listen with the intent to understand. Resist the urge to reply, and carefully consider what you want to say. Moreover, know your audience. We meet diverse people from various walks of life every day, such as corporate hotshots, conservative neighbors, and exhausted spouses — each one views the world differently. Meaningful dialogue takes place when we meet everyone in the middle, and if you find the conversation isn’t going anywhere, ask open-ended questions. It always works!
Better Conversation Week timeline
In ancient Greece, philosophers known as the ‘sophists’ make rhetoric a civic art.
Neil Papworth sends the first text message on December 2 — forever changing the medium of conversation throughout the world.
The Dancing Baby takes over our lives and ushers an era of visual communication.
Charlie Puth and Selena Gomez sing about lost loves and conversations.
Better Conversation Week FAQs
How can I make my conversation better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to better conversations. However, an excellent place to start is by being completely present. Keep your phone away, give your undivided attention, and ask questions.
What makes people easy to talk to?
People who are easy to talk to make others feel understood. They give their undivided attention during conversations and provide insights that help others feel comforted or relieved.
What makes a great conversation?
The best conversations revolve around the other person, not you. So, during a conversation, show interest in the other person and focus on who they are and what they might like.
Better Conversation Week Activities
Communicate in person
Have something important or sensitive to say? Prioritize meeting up and talking in person on Better Conversation Week. Your message is less likely to be lost in translation.
Employ storytelling
Struggling to be heard? Tell people a good story. Set a brief history and build up to a rewarding finish. Use emotion to keep your listeners hooked.
Use humor
We all have a signature sense of humor, but what we don’t know is that humor helps facilitate meaningful and memorable conversations. So, use humor to make your audience laugh — whether deadpan, slapstick, or self-deprecating.
5 Facts About Messaging That Will Blow Your Mind
Good old GIFs
More than 57% of people respond to messages with a GIF.
More messaging, more connection
People who frequently message each other are 52% more likely to meet in person.
Courage, my dear friend
Studies show that messaging makes people bolder and more honest in their communication.
Sidebar chats bring people closer
Secret chats during meetings, dinners, or gatherings can facilitate close relationships.
Say it best with emojis
Over 77% of people above 55 years prefer emojis to communicate.
Why We Love Better Conversation Week
It feels good
Nothing can beat the fuzzy feeling of a heart-to-heart chat. Do you remember the last time you had one? If you don’t, sidle up to your best friend during Better Conversation Week and chat about anything and everything.
It allows us to leave past burdens behind
Deep conversations can help us move on from past tragedies or future worries. Speak your heart during Better Conversation Week instead of bottling up unresolved issues.
It invigorates old and new relationships
Better conversations can elevate existing relationships. What’s more? They spark connections where you least expect them.
Better Conversation Week dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2022 | November 20 | Sunday |
2023 | November 19 | Sunday |
2024 | November 24 | Sunday |
2025 | November 23 | Sunday |
2026 | November 22 | Sunday |