The second week of this month experienced unseasonably high temperatures. The kind you would experience from late May to early June. It was giving summer prelude meets climate change. It was hot enough for shorts and sandals during peak hours, yet cold enough for a jacket by night. This week, the forecast is predicted in the low 10s with sun throughout the week and rain on the weekend. If this concerns you at all.
One of the first things I do in the morning is consult with The Weather Network app. Depending on what is predicted, I am already aware of what the outcome is going to be based on the prediction. How it affects my mood, what I’ll wear (if I have to leave the house), what I feel like like eating, will I need two or three coffees.
Talking about the weather is considered small talk. Diving into the minutia of it feels surface. Avoidant of a deeper connection. Things straight cis-men talk about when they want to have a meaningful conversation, so I am told.
I’m aware that the subject of the weather is banal. But I think people should take more stock on the subject. You’ll realize how much power the discourse on the weather really is. A few months ago, I rented a car (from the same place I usually go) and you know what we discussed? The weather. I have such good rapport with the staff that they gave me a box of chocolates one holiday all because of the power of small talk.
Recently, when Daniel and I went to Cuba, all we talked about before, during and after the holiday was the weather. We talked about how much we hate winter and tell our friends that we’re excited for a warmer climate. While there, we talked amongst ourselves and friends about near perfect sunshine. And with staff, they agreed. And post-holiday, we told everyone how sunny and warm the climate was. I recommend Cuba just for weather discussions alone.
Next time you strike up a conversation with someone, consider the subject of the weather. An unequivocally exciting topic (IMO) that I promise has excellent ROI. You just might spark a new friendship.
—
Perry