Sometimes in a conversation, the interlocutor may touch upon topics that are unpleasant for you. If you do not want to rudely cut off your opponent, because you are afraid of offending the person, try to subtly translate your conversation to another topic.
Instructions
Step 1
In the story of your interlocutor, in addition to, directly, the description of an unpleasant case for you, there are probably other details. Highlight one of them and develop this topic. For example, if a former boyfriend decided to remember your first date, let him know that the cafe where you met that evening changed the interior, new dishes appeared on the menu, and the bartender cooks mojito perfectly. Further conversation can be safely built on the discussion of your favorite cocktails and places where you can order the most delicious drinks.
Step 2
Pretend that during an unpleasant conversation, you remembered something that you have long wanted to ask. Ask clarifications about the fate of former classmates, ask if the cat, whose illness you were told about during the last meeting, has recovered. If nothing comes to mind, ask your interlocutor if he knows if your favorite show is being shown today.
Step 3
Talk about what you see around you. Today the weather is beautiful, the little girl passing by has a charming dress, a big dog runs without a leash, and the clinic you are standing near does not have a wheelchair ramp. Surely one of these topics will seem to your interlocutor worthy of developing it.
Step 4
During an unpleasant conversation, compliment the other person. Praise his shoes, tie, or new hairstyle. Point out how fresh and youthful he looks. The flattered opponent will probably want to share with you the address of the place where he was so successfully cut, or he will decide to tell you where he went to rest and improve his health.
Step 5
Refer to the ringing phone and leave the interlocutor for a couple of minutes. While you are away, come up with a topic you would like to talk about. When you return, immediately start talking without letting the person insert a word. If the previous topic of conversation was not too important for the opponent, he will easily switch to the new conversation.
Step 6
Tell them bluntly that this conversation is unpleasant for you. If you get an adequate and sensitive person as your interlocutor, after this phrase he will change the topic himself or invite you to talk about what you want.
Step 7
If no tricks help to avoid inappropriate questions or unpleasant memories that a distant acquaintance decided to stir up, it is better to leave such an interlocutor. Refer to being busy, say goodbye, and leave the scene as soon as possible. You will probably be able to strike up a conversation on a different topic next time.
