Whenever I hear the phrase “Be true to yourself,” I recall a NYC billboard that read, “Passengers, say something!”
Some people sit passively in the passenger seat of a car or the back seat of a rideshare feeling too uncomfortable to speak.
Yet when your life potentially is on the line, it’s a good time to find the strength to speak up and say something. Something like this: “The way you’re driving is making me uncomfortable. Will you please stop tailgating/looking away from the road/texting/speeding/ [or whatever else you may need to say].”
Here are some other less life-threatening statements you may one day have occasion to make:
- I’d love for you to come over, but tonight’s not good for me.
- I can’t go out tonight. I’ve got a big day tomorrow.
- No, thanks. I’ve had enough to drink.
- Nah. I don’t want to get a tattoo right now. I didn’t plan on that. You go ahead, though.
- I heard you twice the first time.
- I can only repeat what I said the first time.
- Baby, I like it when you open the car door for me because it makes me feel special. Please keep doing that—forever and ever.
- Sweetheart, I know you’re upset right now. But can we please have this discussion without cursing? I realize you’re not cursing at me, but it makes me crazy when we get aggressive with our words. Let’s talk nicely to each other. Cool? Thanks, love.
- Good morning, boss. I won’t be in today. [Explanations are not always necessary.]
- I don’t understand everything in this contract. I’ll take some time to review it before signing. Doesn’t that sound reasonable to you?
- I don’t have an answer for you right now. I’ll get back to you in 24 to 48 hours.
- I wish you all the best. It’s been nice. Goodbye. Sayonara.
