How to End a Conversation

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Briefly think about what got you into the conversation.

   Did you start it with a comment on something? Or did the person you're speaking to start it?
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   Step 2: If you started the conversation

   You don't want the other person thinking you're rude for blowing them off after YOU started the conversation, right? , Pauses in between thoughts are good places to tell the person you have to be somewhere or have to get something done.
   
   Note:
   Pauses in between thoughts does not mean waiting for the person to simply finish a sentence or say "Um..." You really should wait until they finish a thought, out of courtesy. , I'll talk to you later, bye."
   
   Saying you'll talk later is friendly, and most of the time, the person will have time to organize thoughts, so your follow-up conversation is shorter. , Certain people will have no problem with letting you go for awhile, while others will wait for you to get to your car, your class, or even just the bathroom before insisting on texting you.
   
   Hopefully YOU know the people you're dealing with! , Other people need to understand boundaries too, and cutting too much slack can make them think it's okay to monopolize your time.
   
   There are just some situations where manners have to be put aside.
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   Step 3: it's more important to be polite.

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   Step 4: If they started the conversation

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   Step 5: wait for a break in topics.

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   Step 6: Do not say anything bad; just say

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   Step 7: "I have to go.

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   Step 8: If you are waiting for a gap in the conversation

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   Step 9: and there doesn't seem to be one

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    Step 10: wait for them to take a breath

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    Step 11: and then quickly -- but politely -- explain that you have work to do

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    Step 12: and that you'll catch them later.

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    Step 13: Think about what kind of person you're talking to.

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    Step 14: Try to not lose your cool UNLESS this person is being derogatory

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    Step 15: talking about someone else behind their back

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    Step 16: or is severely interrupting your life or work.

Detailed Guide

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