How to change the subject without showing you don’t like the conversation

To come out the winner of an awkward or unpleasant conversation, it is worth remembering a few simple tricks.

In life, there are often situations when the conversation becomes awkward or unpleasant. Perhaps the interlocutor touches on topics that cause you discomfort, or the conversation goes in an undesirable direction. In such cases, it is important to be able to subtly change the topic without disturbing the harmony of communication and without offending the interlocutor. In this article, we’ll look at a few effective ways to do this with grace and tact.



1. Use transitional phrases

Transitional phrases help to smoothly switch to another topic without a sharp break in the dialogue. They serve as a bridge between the current topic and the new.

Examples of transitional phrases:

• I recently read an interesting article about...
• "It reminded me of..."
• “Talking about something else, you haven’t heard about...”

“Good conversation is not just the exchange of words, but the art of switching themes with grace.” - Unknown author

2. Find common interests

If you know that you and your partner have common interests, you can use them as a starting point to change the topic. This will help to maintain a positive atmosphere and strengthen the connection between you.

How to do this:

• Ask questions about the hobbies and hobbies of the interlocutor.
• Share your interests and learn more about them.
• Discuss recent developments in common interests.

“Common interests are the foundation for strong and pleasant conversations.” - Stephen R. Covey.

3. Use humor.

Humor is a great way to defuse the situation and shift attention to something lighter and more positive. It helps to ease tension and create a friendly atmosphere.

How to apply humor:

• Tell funny stories or jokes.
• Use light jokes related to the current conversation.
• Do not use sarcasm or irony so as not to offend the interlocutor.

Laughter is the bridge that connects the heart. - Unknown author

4. Ask questions.

Switching the topic can be natural if you start asking questions about something else. This shows your interest in the life of the interlocutor and directs the conversation in a new direction.

Examples of questions to change the topic:

• “Do you know how your week was? ?
• Have you seen the new movie that came out this week?
• "What are your weekend plans?"

Questions are the keys that open the door to new topics. - Unknown author

5. Use the environment

You can find a reason to change the topic through what is happening around you. Pay attention to objects, events, or people around you and use them as a reason to talk.

Examples of environmental use:

• Weather comment: Today is such beautiful weather! Where do you think you can go for a walk? ?
• Remark about the sets: "You have a great choice of flowers in the room, where did you buy them from?" ?
• Attention to other people: "Saw that couple on the street?" They look happy.”

“The environment can be a great opportunity to start a new conversation.” - Unknown author

6. Recognize the need to change the topic

Sometimes the most honest approach is to admit that the current topic is uninteresting or unpleasant to you and suggest you switch. This requires tact and respect for the interlocutor.

How to do this:

• Say something like, I think this topic is a little hard on me. Can we talk about something else? ?
• Express your feelings without blame: “I feel we should discuss something else now.”
• Suggest a new topic with a positive attitude: “Let’s talk about your vacation plans.”

“Honesty in communication builds trust and understanding.” - Dale Carnegie.

7. Use metaphors and analogies

Metaphors and analogies help to create new associations and smoothly move on to another topic. They make the conversation more imaginative and interesting.

How to apply metaphors:

• Link the current topic to the new one through commonalities: This situation reminds me of how we handled the project in the past. ?
• Use images to shift your attention: It's like seasonal change - time to move on to new things. ?
• Create analogies to make the transition natural: “Switching to a new topic is like changing course on a ship.”

Metaphors are bridges that connect thoughts and ideas. - Unknown author

Conclusion

The ability to subtly change the topic of conversation is an important skill that helps maintain harmonious and pleasant relationships. By avoiding conflict and awkward situations, you can create an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Practice these simple tricks and you will notice how your conversations become smoother and more positive.

“The art of communication is the ability to listen and understand, not just speak.” Anonymous.

Remember that the key to successful communication is attention and respect for the feelings and needs of your interlocutor. Be patient and empathetic, and your conversations will bring joy and understanding.