xd: it is EXTREMELY VITAL that you read this if you are using any instant messengers.

the haha stalemate (i made up this name.)

alternative names: the lol/hahahha/hah/hey-heh/rofl/lmao/wth/wtf stalemate (this list is not exhaustive, as there are dunno thousands permutations for "h" and "a")

im sure you people have encountered a lot of haha stalemates before (just that you dont know how to call it), and found it unpleasant afterwards, as if you have serious communication problems or that you are drifting apart from the person youve just talked to.

but xd says, its just natural. :D (species: trioculus monomouthous supersmileous) the stalemate is caused by the natural human problem of anticipation. the anticipation of the other party to make a first move before you follow.

and its definitely not your communication problem, coz you know well that if the other party talks again you'll probably flood the whole window with your messages.

so what is a haha stalemate? here's an illustration (not from an actual conversation): <-- this is an accidenta frownus (an unintentional sad face)


i am person A says:
after that we had to go to coro to buy the stuff. and it cost us 20 bucks! i


am person A says:
wth..


i am person B says:
haha


(10 minutes later...)


last line in the conversation window:


i am person B says:
haha

somehow, instructed by an INCREDIBLY STRONG UNKNOWN SUPERNATURAL FORCE, none of either party is inclined to contribute more to the conversation.

im sure you'd feel extremely awkard after this.

Prevention methods:

1. try to force a new topic for discussion. (eg have you watched this movie yet?)
2. once you feel you have no ability to chat further, allow for a smooth "hey i gotta go now, goodnite!"
3. BUT THE MOST EFFECTIVE METHOD IS: STOP SAYING HAHA !!

i hope this chapter of "MSN conversation basics: peacefully maintaining a conversation online" has benefited you. we look forward to providing you with more insights on online chatting. thank you and have a nice day.

and a haha stalemate-free day too.

haha