July Edition

Let’s be real. Not every conversation you have will be smooth sailing. You’ve probably been there—someone catches you completely off guard with a comment that feels like a subtle dig… or maybe not so subtle. It might come across as sarcastic or even insulting. Your first instinct might be to get defensive or shut down. But if you want to maintain your front-row presence, here’s your power move: Pause. Breathe. Ask a Question. What to say when someone insults you while staying Calm, Cool, and Credible

When you feel that sting of a potentially insulting comment, here’s what I want you to do: Don’t react — respond instead, after taking a pause Take a deep breath — literally. This will instantly calm your nervous system. Ask a clarifying question. “That sounded like a dig—was that your intent?” “That came across as sarcastic— was that what you meant?” “That sounded like an insult, was that your intent?” One of these works beautifully:

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