16 Jan 2026
moDZZ
Hi Vicki, I finished uni last year and started my first role in March. There’s a colleague at work who I feel oddly reserved around - when we’re in a shared space I sometimes freeze or stumble over what to say, even though I’d like to talk to them. Toward the end of last year I covered for another team and ended up sitting next to them for a day. The person who called in sick, ended up coming in, but once the conversation started, it actually went really well and felt natural, which made me realise that I can talk to them - I just struggle initiating or approaching them on my own. It oddly turned into a sort of Q and A with me which was nice, but then again I could of started to talk with the other person in the morning. Anyway, the day was wholesome and they asked me to try some things during the festive break like 'bed rotting', 'pasta', and 'wearing jeans'. I know sounds very exiting, but it's because I always dress smart and 'to impressive' in a way. I wanted to catch up with them this week to give them a little update, but another person was in at the same time and I didn’t feel comfortable interrupting. Because of the room layout, you really have to “force” your way into the conversation, which I find awkward. They went out to lunch last time, and I was thinking asking if they wanted to get a group lunch or something, but wasn't too sure if this would be good. I asked the person I'm more reserved with if they wanted to get a coffee last year because I thought they were leaving, but turns out I was completely wrong, and we never went out because our schedules didn't align. I’m in my early twenties, and so are they. It’s easy for me to talk to other colleagues, and even to this person when others are involved — but one-on-one I become hesitant and overthink it. Do you have any advice on how to feel more comfortable initiating conversation and being more naturally sociable in situations like this? Thanks so much — I’d really appreciate your thoughts.
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