FAB Blog Post

3 Tips On How To Handle Personal Questions

Read More

Ever had a friend, family member or stranger ask you a very personal question about religion, politics or personal medical decisions you’ve made for you and your family?

Maybe your palms start sweating, thoughts start racing and anxiety floods your brain and body because you feel put on the spot or like you’re being judged.

Maybe you have no idea how to respond? If so, you’re not alone.

It can be an intense and awkward experience and even more frustrating when you’re not sure what to say or how to handle the situation delicately.

Lately with today’s climate, these questions seem to be dinner table topics.

But, they’re not. They’re private and personal information and viewpoints and you get decide what and how much you share with others.

If you’ve ever struggled with a situation similar to this or the awkward silence, then you’ll love this ETV episode.

Today, I’m sharing 3 simple calming steps and statements you can take the next time you feel stuck in an awkward situation like this.

If you’re not sure how to respond to these questions or not sure what to say or do in these situations, keep reading and watching – this vlog is for you!

Use these questions to ponder first before you ask a personal question to a friend, family member or co-worker.

0-01 What makes me ask this question? Why?
What do I really want to do with this information?
How will I make the other person feel by asking this?

 

Being asked a personal question? Use these three simple steps to make an empowered choice on how you’re going to respond.

0-01 Pause and breathe.
Ask yourself if you want to answer these questions.  Yes/No/Not Sure
Once you know, share your response honestly (use the tips below).

Here’s a few of my favorite back-pocket statements for responding to awkward situations or questions

0-01 “Thanks for asking or thanks for your curiosity (this is called a softening statement), and I’m not comfortable sharing that information right now.”
“I’m curious – what makes you ask about that?”
“No thanks – That’s private information I don’t share with others.”

Remember, “No” is a complete sentence and is self-care. It’s OK to set a boundary with your personal information and viewpoints. Only you can decide if you’d like to share this information or not.

Now, I’d love to hear from you. Specifically, in the comments below, please share ONE insight, a-ha moment, or tip you gained from reading or watching this video.

Or, if you have a specific comment or way you handle these types of questions or situations, let us know what you say or do.

When you share your experiences, insights or take-aways, it empowers others to share as well and know that they’re not alone and when you have the courage to share with authenticity, vulnerability and honesty, it allows for a deeper connection to occur within you and another perrson.

Thanks so much for reading, watching and participating! I can’t wait to connect with you in the comments below.


In support and love,