Since removing myself from the toxic mess of the charity shop I've noticed there's far less gossip in my life, so obviously I'm far happier. It's not all disappeared so what's left I'm controlling to the best of my capabilities.
There are two main sources of gossip in my life now, one person I speak to pretty much every day and the other I see about once a fortnight. I'm practising my anti-gossip on them. I either don't listen (one person says what they want to say regardless) or I use one or more of my handy phrases -
I'm sure they'd be delighted you're telling me about all this
Luckily for you, that's not your problem to think about
With your support I hope they find a resolution soon
and my favourite
I don't need to have an opinion about that
It works surprisingly well, because I've chosen not to feel bad about shutting it down.
I commend you for not engaging. I also like your responses. I don’t like gossip or spreading it. It makes me feel the need to shower. I’ve been the object of gossip. Not fun.
ReplyDeleteLike you, I don't like engaging in gossip. I try not to get involved in talking about other peoples' business, because that's exactly what it is. Besides, I don't need the stress of worrying about other people, who I'm sure don't even want me to know their problems. Fortunately, at work, I don't get dragged into it which suits me fine. There are a few situations where it sometimes happens, but I just try to not engage and avoid giving an opinion. I think your handy phrases are very useful and tactful ones.
ReplyDeleteLove your replies and I am glad that they work. Shutting down gossip is a great thing.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.