Psychology Today | 08.07.2026 02:51
Amid the clanging dishes and the chorus of chatter, two friends are seated in a busy restaurant. Once they settle into their seats, quickly glance at the happy hour menu, and acknowledge that it has in fact been "too long" since they last caught up, there is a pregnant pause, a tension in the air. One friend leans in, makes eye contact, and asks, "So, how are you?" Such a simple question, but the weight of the inquiry lands on the other like a burden. The recipient of the question immediately starts to translate her active thoughts into a more digestible answer, searching for one that is both tactful and appropriate for the atmosphere. She forces a smile and replies, "I'm fine. How are you?"
