How are you?

What a favorite greeting of so many people, "Hi, how are you." (Question mark omitted purposefully.)
I remember years ago when I first went to work at Warner Lambert Pharmaceutical, now Pfizer, and was introduced to my new co-workers. That was the greeting that I had taken so casually up until then. However, I met Julia. Her response was, "Do you really want to know? If you do I will tell you; but if you don't then do not ask."
Phew, that was the one response I never expected. So, how are you?
Now I only ask that of people if I really want to know how they are. I am sure so many people would like to really say how they are but who really wants to know?
So, my point is, don't ask if you don't want to know. Be sincere. Find another opening greeting.
I often think of Julia. She seemed harsh but she became a friend and offered her unadulterated guidance to me often. Thanks, Julia.