The Holiday Survival Guide: 8 Questions to Skip the Small Talk

Let’s be honest: Holiday gatherings are a mixed bag.

There is the food (good), the nostalgia (usually good), and then… the small talk.

Somewhere between the second helping of potatoes and the dessert course, the conversation often stalls. We revert to the same old questions: “How’s work?” “How’s the weather?” “When are you getting married/having kids/buying a house?”

I wanted to give you a secret weapon for your holiday table this year.

Below is a Digital Hand of my favorite cards from the Cards for Connection deck. These are the questions that crack people open—just enough to let the light in, without making anyone feel put on the spot.

How to Play:

1. Put your phone in the middle of the table.

2. Have someone tap a card to "flip" it.

3. Ask the table (or just the person next to you) to answer.

4. Pass the phone and repeat.