Meaningful conversations have specific hallmarks. Here's how to recognize one while it's happening.
When both people have said something vulnerable — something they don't say to everyone — meaning has been established.
You started talking about music and ended up talking about your dad. Meaningful conversations evolve naturally — they're not steered.
Comfortable silence — where neither person rushes to fill it — is a sign of real depth. It means the space is safe.
The test is simple: a week from now, will this conversation be one you still think about? If yes — you've got something.