I find that if I answer this common question with something other than the standard and expected, “Fine, thanks” that people tend to pay more attention in any conversation that follows. It also tends to break the ice, especially with complete strangers who are then much more amiable and talkative.
My standards:
Smashing, thank you.
If I were doing any better, I could jump up and stay there.
If I were doing any better, I’d be dating double-jointed promiscuous twins.
My pockets hurt.
Got any that I can add to my repertoire?
I also suggest you give it a try. I’ve been doing it for a few years and have found an incredible difference in day-to-day interactions. Waiters/waitresses, store clerks, and virtually anybody else you talk to will react better to you using this little trick!
“Splendid!”
“I felt great, but I got over it.”
“Fair, partly cloudy.”
“Better and better.”
“So far, I’ve avoided capture.”
“I’ll let you know when I wake up.”
“Answer not found. Try again later, or click Refresh.”
Immediatly going into my response bank are Darkhold’'s, “Well if you were me how would you feel?” and calm kiwi’s, “Hunky Dory”. Some of the others I think are worth trying out, and a couple I know I just couldn’t pull off.