The moment
Lucas and his friend Mei are having noodles in Singapore after work. Lucas has been talking about Daniel, a guy from his climbing gym, for weeks. Tonight he's sure there's no chance, because he saw Daniel with someone else. Listen for how Mei asks about Daniel, questions Lucas's conclusion, and helps him find a relaxed next step.
The conversation
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
- Mei
- Lucas
Words to know
decide something is true too fast, without facts
stay relaxed; don't make it serious
about someone's private life
have permission to do something
get along well right away
Check yourself
Practice · 3 min
Round one: repeat every line. Round two: mute Lucas and say his lines; sound worried at the start and a little braver at the end. Round three: mute Mei and practice being the friend who asks good questions. Then use "Don't jump to conclusions" today, about anything at all.
- MeiSo, how's climbing going? And by climbing, I mean Daniel.
- LucasVery funny. Actually, I think I should forget about him.
- MeiWhy? Last week you said you'd really hit it off.
- LucasWe did. But on Saturday I saw him leaving the gym with a woman.
- MeiAnd? Did they look like a couple, or were they just walking together?
- LucasI'm not sure. She was laughing a lot, and he carried her bag.
- MeiDon't jump to conclusions. Maybe she's his sister or a friend.
- LucasMaybe. I've been too nervous to ask him anything personal.
- MeiOK, remind me. What's he like when you actually talk?
- LucasHe's really easy to talk to, and he's got a great sense of humor.
- MeiThen talk to him. Your gym has that group dinner on Friday, right?
- LucasIt does. I could ask if he's going, and keep it casual.
- MeiExactly. You'll learn a lot more at dinner than from the parking lot.
- LucasFine. I'll ask him on Wednesday. But you're not allowed to tease me.
Say it today
Use it once in a real conversation before tomorrow. Out loud counts, even to yourself.