About this quote

Sometimes blunt words are the fastest way to stop a situation from escalating. Saying a clear boundary forces others to respect your space and gives you room to think. If you feel overwhelmed, take concrete steps: close the door, put on headphones, or move to another place and stick to it. Who are you protecting right now by making that choice?

When to use it

• At the open-plan office when a colleague keeps interrupting your work, say, "Don't talk to me," then put your headphones on and finish the report.
• During a heated conversation at home, stand up and tell your partner, "Don't talk to me right now," then go for a walk to cool off.
• In the library before a big exam when people won't stop whispering, quietly tell them, "Don't talk to me," and focus on your paper.
• After a rough therapy session when you need quiet, tell your roommate, "Don't talk to me tonight," and spend the evening alone to process.