How to handle 3 questions everyone hates
<p>Whether it’s borne of a rebellious attitude towards social norms, some kind of hostility, or just plain cluelessness, there are so many reasons why someone you know (<em>or don’t know</em>) may ask you one of those personal, awkward, or downright rude questions you hate to answer. Despite the reason for or motivation behind the questioning, there always comes that moment when you have to respond in some way. To prepare you for those moments, we’ve got a few tips.</p>
<p><strong>How goes the hunt for love?</strong></p>
<p>As anyone who has read <em>Bridget Jones’ Diary</em> can tell you (or even those who live it on a daily basis), one of the most dreaded questions of many a single is the reason they aren’t partnered up. If you are confronted with this question, remember not to get frustrated – the reasoning is likely not malicious – so try to remain your poised, gracious self as you answer, “Why do you ask?” This simple response is the conversational equivalent of returning a blistering serve in tennis. It’s similarly personal, and will force your questioner to give a reason why you should answer. You take it from there – your reasons are your own.</p>
<p><strong>How much did you get?</strong></p>
<p>Questions about money are rarely appropriate, but surprisingly frequent with people you don’t know terribly well. There are a few options available to you in this case, and both are perfectly good. Use your best judgement:</p>
<ul>
<li>Humorous responses can politely indicate that you don’t want to discuss money. Something like, “What am I paid? Only paid half what I’m worth.” Sure, it’s not a knee-slapper, but the asker should get the point. If they don’t;</li>
<li>Try being direct but polite. Firm responses that you were taught to never discuss subjects like money should shut down the questioning, and make anyone in earshot think twice about prying in the future.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Have you lost weight?</strong></p>
<p>This is the backhanded way of telling someone they’re looking especially good today. Your asker may be looking for a few tips to help them on their own fitness journey, so if you have lost weight because of a new diet or exercise regime, you may want to discuss it with them. Otherwise, you can once again reflect the question upon the asker by replying with the same question about their weight. If it turns into an awkward silence, then it’s likely they didn’t have a strong reasoning behind asking, but if they reply with a story about their own weight loss, or lack thereof, then feel free to lead the conversation as you feel comfortable.</p>
<p>What’s your best tip for handling those awkward moments when you don’t want to answer a question?</p>
