How to Respond to How's It Going

Never struggle to quickly come up with a response again

You’re going about your day when someone asks you "How's it going?" A simple question, right? Then why can it feel so tricky to answer? Don't worry—we’ve compiled a list of the best ways to respond to “How’s it going?” from a loved one, friend, stranger, or dating app match. Whether you're looking for a polite, creative, flirty, or funny response, we've got you covered.

[Edit]Things You Should Know

Keep your reply short and simple if you don’t know the person well or don’t want to chat.
Ask them how their day is going to flip the topic of conversation back to them if you’re not sure what to say.
Give your response a bit of flair by putting a positive twist on a sucky situation or bringing up a current event.

[Edit]Steps

[Edit]“I’m doing well!”

Give a positive response if you’re feeling great. You can’t go wrong with a simple yet truthful reply, especially if the day’s been amazing! Let a friend or stranger know that things are going well for a quick but polite response. You might also say:
- “Great!”
- “Brilliant!”
- “I feel blessed!”

[Edit]“Not great.”

Let them know you’re having a rough day. Unfortunately, not all days can be full of sunshine and rainbows. If you’re feeling a bit blah, consider shrugging and giving one of these quick responses:^[1]
- “So-so.”
- “Eh, not the best day.”
- “I've been better.”^[2]

[Edit]“I guess it could be worse.”

Put a positive spin on a bad day to spark a conversation. This is a great response when you’re blue and want to chat but don’t know if the asker is up for it. It sets up a follow-up question or gives plenty of space to end a polite greeting.^[3]
- “Not awesome, but the day’s still young.”
- “I’m alive, so that’s good.”
- “Some days you’re the bug, and some days you’re the windshield. Today, I’m the bug