It comes down to practice and improving incrementally. Also accepting that it may never feel or be natural for you, but still trying your best anyway.

I’ve always been shy and struggled to make small talk or talk to others with ease. Even after decades I still have to go out of my way to do it and force myself out of that comfort zone.

It does get easier and most of the time even close friends are shocked that I claim to be so shy, when to many people I apparently come off as confident, friendly, and chatty, despite still internally feeling like a total dork and uncomfortable a lot of the time.

It’s a cliché, but you’ve basically gotta fake it until you make it. Even if you still feel like a total imposter most of the time.

Practice with clerks in the store or at checkout or even other customers in line with you. These engagements are usually short and end quickly so they are great opportunity to strike up a very quick chat and organically end it without feeling weird or the need to prolong the conversation. You’re also unlikely to ever meet them again so even if you flub it or say something stupid it’s easier to forget about it.

Also as other have already said, read more, stay up to date with current and world news and events so when someone os talking about something and you’ve recently read, heard, watched, or learned about that thing, talking about it will not just be easier but feel more natural. If it’s something you know nothing about, straight up say so and then say something like, “Wow! I really know nothing about that, but it sounds fascinating! Tell me more.”

People love talking about things they know well or are passionate about, especially if they feel like they are teaching or sharing something special with you. Just remember to ask questions and be genuinely interested, and you’ll have won more than half the battle.