INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Refrain from shouting unnecessarily or treat others as though they do not understand. Raising your voice does not make you easier to understand and can be seen as rude. Likewise, even if there are difficulties in communicating with people from other cultures, do not treat other people as though they are unintelligent. Communication difficulties arise from cultural differences, not because of matters of intelligence. Be polite and use formal modes of address until it is made clear that you don't need to (such as a business contact telling you to use first names). Depending on the cultures that are interacting, this may include addressing others: By first and last name By last name alone With a title such as "Mr." or "sir" Using formal pronouns, if they exist in the language used for communicating If you will be communicating with people who speak a different language, try to learn a few basic phrases beforehand. Your situation may not require you or permit you to become fluent in a foreign language, but you can still try to learn some. Practice the basics, including: "Hello," "Please," "Thank you," "How are you?," etc. Carry a phrase book or electronic device that can help you find phrases you need and don't know. Be patient when others are trying to use your language. If you are communicating with people who speak a different language, try to use their language at first, or as much as you can. Even if you can't say much more than "hello" and "how are you?" in their language, the gesture is usually appreciated. This is important, unless you are absolutely sure how it is used in another culture. Using non-standard or obscene language improperly can make you hard to understand, and may be perceived as very offensive. Since a language's slang and profanity are complex and highly dependent on context, it is best to avoid them altogether unless you are absolutely sure you know to use them properly.

SUMMARY: Speak clearly and slowly, if necessary. Be proper. Brush up on your foreign language skills. Try to use the dominant language if you are in the linguistic minority. Avoid slang and profanity.

In one sentence, describe what the following article is about: Create a list of talking points for yourself to guide you through the conversation. Write this list at a time when you are feeling calm and relaxed. This will help you control the conversation without becoming overly emotional. Write out exactly why you want the divorce, and use this to help you express these thoughts to your spouse. For example, you might write, "I feel as though my needs are not being met by the marriage" or "I think that there are certain issues that we can't resolve." Make a list of reasons why the divorce would be good for you. For example, you might say, "We won't have to argue over little things anymore" or "We can pursue our career goals more freely." Don't assume what would be good for your significant other. While it may seem difficult not to become overwhelmed by this conversation, try to use a calm, even voice and speak slowly. Avoid yelling, screaming, name-calling, or eye-rolling during the conversation. If you feel yourself becoming angry, defensive, or frustrated, stop and take a deep breath. Count to 10 if you need to. When you are ready, respond to your spouse in a calm, even tone. Try squeezing a small stress ball during the conversation when things get tense. If your spouse becomes angry or if you are afraid that they will become violent, remove yourself from the situation. You might tell them something like, "We can continue this conversation at another time." Statements that begin with "you" may come off as accusatory. These statements may incite anger in your spouse and make the divorce process more stressful than it has to be. Instead, use statements that begin with "I" to reflect how you feel. For example, don't say, "You cheated!" or "All you do is work." Instead, simply say, "I feel like we have grown apart. It's not working for me anymore." If your spouse begins to blame you or derail the conversation, end the discussion. You've made up your mind and getting into the technicalities will only make the process harder. Say, "I've made my decision. I don't want to argue with you. Perhaps we can talk more later." Divorce can cause many different emotions, including relief, anxiety, grief, or stress. It is okay if you feel mixed emotions after asking your partner for a divorce. Remind yourself of why you wanted the divorce in the first place to give you the motivation you need to see it through. If you're feeling depressed, overwhelmed, or anxious about the divorce, consider seeing a mental health professional to discuss your feelings. They can help you come to terms with your divorce.
Summary: Write a script beforehand if you think you will be too emotional. Remain calm throughout the conversation. Use "I" statements to avoid blame. Steer clear of fault-finding or arguing. Prepare for mixed emotions in the aftermath.

INPUT ARTICLE: Article: Be available to listen when this person needs a friend. Even if the person does not want help now, they may want some support in the future. Let them know that while you don't approve of their alcoholism that you are available to talk and listen if they need it. Communicate that you are willing to be a friend when they need friendship. Share your thoughts and feelings honestly with the addicted person, letting them know how you feel. Put the focus on you and not on them, as this can cause guilt or shame. For example, instead of saying, "You're destroying yourself and making bad decisions" say, "I don't get to see you anymore, which makes me sad. I miss having you as a part of my life." Let the person know you are worried and are impacted by their drinking. Express your willingness to be supportive as well. Say, "I really don't like how alcohol has impacted our relationship. While this is painful for me, I want to support you because I care about you." If the person expresses interest in seeking treatment, offer to help them however you can. Help them look up treatment facilities, detoxification programs, support groups, or whatever else they are interested in exploring. Offer to drive them to appointments or support them in certain life changes. If the person isn't quite ready for help, make one offer, then wait for them to ask you. If you constantly offer help, the person may become off-put by you and your good intentions. Get informed on local resources for alcohol addiction. For example, look up community groups for alcoholism, treatment specialists, and treatment programs. That way, you can be ready to share information with the person.

SUMMARY:
Be available to listen. Express honesty. Offer to help.