Relative Something

I surprise myself sometimes with my ability to repeatedly assume that “tomorrow” I’ll have time to take care of what I have not been able to accomplish today. Unfortunately, in that scenario, tomorrow definitely never comes.

One thing that has the ability to absorb precious time, especially in a work environment, is a person who neglects to notice signals indicating a desire to depart from a conversation. It’s always a little awkward hearing someone continue to talk after my back is turned and I’m headed off to the next task. I don’t mean to be rude. If my multiple verbal attempts to suspend the conversation, and my body language indicating I’m trying to go, fail to provide the awareness that I intend to step away, my leave ends up happening as the commenter continues their conversation/monologue. Oops, sorry about that, Chatty Cathy.

One option, which I have tried, is to simply state that I need to break away. If that worked for me, I’d be more inclined to make that my practice. Sadly, it feels even more uncomfortable to be subjected to the unending commentary after I have just stated clearly that I needed to excuse myself. Talk to my back as I walk away.

I gotta say, these kinds of situations prove to be increasingly exhausting to those of us who have a high social sensitivity. When there is already more to be done than time allows, burdens such as a person who won’t stop talking, unnecessarily complicate already complicated days.

Pay attention out there, people! There is work to be done. Tomorrow there should be plenty of time to hear the rest of that never-ending story of yours.