Say What?

Blurting out inappropriate quips and comments does not enhance social relationships. Impulsiveness drives the inconvenient verbal outbursts that may be witty, but when delivered at the wrong time they can create hard feelings or put the speaker into a very awkward position.

Practice courtesy when speaking. Don't make personal comments about dress, style, appearance, or weight. Don’t tell jokes that may be misunderstood. Humor isn’t always received as entertainment when it is perceived as cutting, sarcastic, or rude. Before the impulse to speak out takes hold, take a deep breath and slowly exhale. Then smile. Put your hands together. Take another breath. Do this practice consistently until you have time to think your comment through.