How to Think before you Speak

open mouth, insert foot

Have you ever regretted saying something to someone after it came out of your mouth? Sometimes a little discretion and practice thinking before speaking could save you from embarrasssing situations.

Things You'll Need

• Gauge for knowing when NOT to speak
• Something to remove your foot from your mouth when you do speak inappropriately
• Exercise discipline

Instructions

1. 

   When speaking one-on-one or in a group, think about what you are going to say before you say it. Run the thoughts through your head quickly before letting them emerge from your mouth.

2. 

   Ensure that if you are addressing a group of individuals that you don't say something that is overtly offensive to anyone, such as racial, personal, or physical commentary.

3. 

   Did your mother ever tell you that if you don't have something NICE to say, don't say anything at all? I can't tell you how many times I say that around my own house, but it's true. No one likes to hear degrading, derogatory talk, so just zip it if you can say something nice.

4. 

   Every once and a while you can't help but say something you wish you could take back, and when this happens, swiftly act on it with good damage control. Give either written or verbal apologies to the person/people you offended.

Tips & Warnings

• If it didn't sound right in your head, don't say it out loud

• Offending people could lose you your job, so exercise extreme caution with your sharp tongue at work