I think the best way to do that is to remember that if the relationship is important to you then it’s your responsibility to be the one who tries, but you have to understand, some people just are hard to get along with, and others are just boring, but if you love or care for them you just accept that and find a way to bridge the gap between you and them. Understand that you may just have to give up, it is what it is, but making the effort absolves yourself of the guilt, you tried, it’s all any of us can do.

I find taking interest on what they’re interested in really helps, sometimes it will surprise you that their interests can become a shared interest. My kids and I can talk for hours about their stuff, and I’m just happy to participate.

Also, be a good listener, anyone can talk and be the life of the party and show off the charisma, but listening takes patience, understanding, empathy and compassion.

Best of luck to you.