I’ve observed a interesting phenomenon in the past couple of months. I seem to be a magnet for people who thoroughly enjoy talking about themselves, encourage me to say something about myself, and then find something in what I say to make them go back to a topic related to them*. It probably sounds like I’m judging them, but I’m not, really. I genuinely prefer listening to them than having to feel compelled to share something.
* Applies to fairly new acquaintances. Fortunately, I have a much more equal you-rant-then-I’ll-rant setup with long-time friends.