Article: In some cases – such as when the opinionated person is in a position of authority over you – you’ll have little choice but to make the best of a bad situation. Reframe your conversations away from topics that make you uncomfortable. If you don’t want to talk about the topics that the opinionated person brings up, shift focus to topics that you are more comfortable discussing. It does not have to be something you are even interested in, just steer the conversation away from sensitive topics. Ask the person about his or her family or interests. If you know you’re going to have to spend time with an opinionated person, make plans for minimizing the time you spend together. At work, this could mean avoiding areas where that person is or having a reply prepared so that you can excuse yourself and leave the situation. At family events, plan activities that will allow you to avoid face-to-face conversations. If the opinionated person insists on talking about religion, politics, money, or any topic that makes you feel uncomfortable, attempt to privately tell that person that you don’t like to talk about such things and that you’d appreciate avoiding those discussions.  Be firm. If the person keeps bringing up those topics, remind him or her that you don’t want to have that discussion. For example: "I'm so glad you have gotten so much from your faith. But I feel my belief in God is a private thing, and I'd rather talk about something else." Say something such as “I know you have strong opinions on that, but that topic makes me uncomfortable. I really don’t want to talk about it.” Or, simply deflect: "Let's talk about something lighter, huh? Tell me, how is that new baby of yours?" If the opinionated person is constantly giving advice or trying to show you a better way to do something, simply respond with a respectful “Thanks for the suggestion” or “I appreciate you pointing that out to me.” If he or she is correct, you’ll want to follow the advice. If not, simply ignore it and do what’s best.  Realize that you might find yourself reacting against the opinionated person. There might be times when the opinionated person really does know what he or she is talking about but is putting forth his or her opinions in an obnoxious or domineering way. In those cases, you might be tempted to ignore his or her advice, simply to make a point. Don’t let anger cloud your judgment. Resist the temptation to be passive-aggressive. Even if you don’t get into a shouting match with an opinionated person, you might be tempted to roll your eyes at them or mutter snide comments under your breath. Doing so will only increase the tension between you and the opinionated person.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Bite your tongue and smile. Have an exit strategy. Establish healthy boundaries. Be tactful.