One Sentence to Disarm Hurtful Comments and Protect Your Mental Health Hurtful words—whether from a stranger, colleague, or loved one—can sting deeply, shaking your confidence. Yet, a simple response like “Help me understand” can defuse the situation and foster clarity, per communication expert Matt Abraham (CNBC, 2024). As a psychology professor with decades of expertise, … Read more
The One Sentence That Disarms Condescending People, Backed by Science Facing a condescending remark can shake your confidence, making you feel small. Yet, a simple sentence like “I appreciate your perspective” can shift the dynamic, per behavioral specialist Ava Sinclair (HackSpirit, 2024). As a psychology professor with decades of expertise, I’ve seen assertive communication reduce … Read more
How to Respond to Spicy Comments in Meetings with Calm and Intelligence Workplace meetings can be a minefield of sharp remarks and tense moments, but public speaking coach Emmanuel Chila offers five key strategies—plus a bonus sixth—to handle spicy comments with poise and intelligence. From dodging remarks to using humor or asserting authority, these techniques … Read more
Master Conversations with This Simple Gesture for Confidence and Control Feeling interrupted or sidelined in a conversation, especially in professional settings, can be frustrating. Communication coach Jimmy Dusseau, sharing insights on LinkedIn, offers two powerful techniques—a “pause and redirect” and a “stop gesture”—to regain control politely and assertively. These methods not only restore balance but … Read more