Easy Ways to Exit Awkward Situations
A Story Repeater
Your father-in-law is telling you that story about foiling the pickpocket in Moscow―for the fifth time. Do you let him know you've heard it before and can tell it better than he does? "If the story is longer than a minute and the two of you are alone, do interrupt to tell him that you've heard―and enjoyed―that story once before," says Margaret Shepherd, a coauthor of The Art of Civilized Conversation. Try: "You had everyone in stitches when you told that story last Christmas." No need to add that you've heard the story for the last four Christmases. "Segue to a related topic," suggests Shepherd, and if possible, draw in another person to freshen up the conversation.With older people whose memory may be slipping or when you're in a group, though, it can be cruel to interrupt, says author Letitia Baldrige: "Patiently listen and wait for a chance to change the subject. If they're thrilled to be telling the story, dismissing them too suddenly is like smooshing an ant."
Next:
The Wrong Restaurant
Most Popular Galleries
Hot Topic
“Whether your smartphone took an accidental dip in the pool or got stolen while you were strolling the boardwalk, saying goodbye
to your phone is never easy. Perhaps the worst part of the whole...”
More From
How to Automatically Back Up Your Photos
Advertisement
What's Hot
What Causes Dark Circles Under Your Eyes?
If your dark circles aren’t quite this adorable, you don’t have to grin and bear it. Try these (en)lightening strategies to minimize them.

I have a major thing for blue mason jars. I use them for everything – drinking g...
from The Nest Blog - Home Décor, Cooking, Money, Health & Sex News & Advice » house & home
Money can buy happiness—if you spend wisely. We asked experts to explain ...
from FOXNews.com
Wedding season is in full swing here at POPSUGAR, and we have everything you nee...
from POPSUGAR Home
Ottolenghi is a lucky man.
Read more: Tastemakers , Ottolenghi ...
from Tastepartner on The Huffington Post
Check out the pictures of the stunning mansion and you'll agree with us....
from Home on Huffingtonpost
Using architectural salvage can make all the difference in retaining an older h...
from Houzz












