Wait until someone is done talking

Seeking first to understand involves developing the rare skill of empathic listening. Unlike other forms of listening, it:

• Focuses on understanding the other person's frame of reference, not formulating a reply
• Requires listening with ears, eyes, and heart for ...

Using email bouncebacks is the most socially acceptable “no” there is. It doesn't mean you're telling them that you don't want to respond to them. It only states that you can't reply for a certain period of time. 

Embarrassment is a self-conscious emotion dictated by a disconnect between how we feel we should respond or act in public and how we actually respond or act. 

We are most likely to be embarrassed when we believe we have not lived up to what society asks of us or when we are on the re...