Dear Dr. Mimi- Ear-itated

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Dear Dr. Mimi,
I have a colleague at work who I really like, but she repeats the same stories over and over again. How can I politely let her know that I don’t need to hear it for the third or fourth time? Sometimes her storytelling keeps me from completing my work. Other than that, she is a great co-worker and friend.
—Ear-itated


Dear Ear,
It is hard to listen to the same story repeatedly. When she starts to repeat her story, stop her and say, “Is this the time when …?” and repeat back what you think the story will be. If she continues to talk, you may have to let her know that you don’t have time to listen now as you have work to get done.
—Dr. Mimi

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drmimi

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