(CNN/The Complete Sheet)
Have you ever noticed how often a tiny, offhand comment will inadvertently offend someone . . . and lead to a major argument? I have.
--If you have too, here are TEN go-to phrases you can use to defuse a potentially volatile conversation . . . and keep the peace.
#1.) "Thank you for your opinion. I'll think about it."
#2.) "Is this a good time for you?"
#3.) "Would you like my thoughts?"
#4.) "Why don't we get the facts?"
#5.) "I need your help. Can you please . . .?"
#6.) "Let's wait on this until we have more information."
#7.) "What did you mean by that?"
#8.) "I don't like that, so why don't we do this instead?"
#9.) "I'm sorry you're upset."
#10.) "Let me get back to you."
