Archive: Around Town

Dear Margaret: If I had a nickel for every time I said or thought, "I should have said…" I'd be wealthy indeed. Why can't I seem to stick up for myself on the spot? Why does it take me, at times, until the next day to come up with an appropriate response? I feel like I lose opportunities to defend my positions and portray myself in a positive light. Is there something wrong with me that causes me to feel tongue tied and unable to give a quick comeback?
Tongue Tied

Dear Tongue Tied: Not all of us are wired to give snappy comebacks. A well thought out response is often appreciated, and it's seldom too late to respond in such a manner – even the next day. If you feel you've not been given an opportunity to speak your mind because you needed more time to give a careful response, or if you think an assessment has been made and isn't complete without your further input, there is nothing wrong with reengaging with the other person for a follow up conversation. In the moment, there is nothing wrong in saying you appreciate the other individual's views, and you'd like to give more thought before responding.

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