- Politics; this is a tricky subject and I know lots of people out there love to debate political issues, but it’s been my experience that those types of conversations are best left for small groups and one-on-ones with a friend whose opinion you respect. People aren’t likely to be swayed by your boozy arguments about why they should support the Democratic party when they're Republican (or vice versa) and if you get on your soapbox you’ll probably just end up ticking someone off. The only exception I can think of is when someone specifically asks your opinion on a particular issue because they’re still trying to form theirs. If that’s the case, discuss the subject quietly and then gracefully end the conversation when someone else joins the group.
- Religion; this topic is similar to politics…a deeply held set of beliefs that isn’t likely to change over a margarita. An exception here might be where you go to church and if you’re happy there, especially if someone has asked for this information because they’re thinking of joining.
- How gifted and talented your kid is; Cool Broads don’t boast. Besides, this topic is potentially awkward if you are talking to someone whose child’s test scores didn’t land him in the “brilliant” category as yours did.
- How much you just paid for something; in general, it’s bad form to discuss money. This includes how much you just paid for your highly-coveted Louis Vuitton, your shiny new Lexus, or your McMansion. There are exceptions to the rule, of course, but it’s usually with small ticket items, such as how much your pay your babysitter or the yard guy (and only discuss what you pay your yard guy if you pay him in currency...wink wink).
- Other people (especially if they’re at the party, or God forbid, they’re hosting the party); this should go without saying but I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found myself talking with someone at a party and they’ve gotten the impression that they’re at a gossipfest. If someone begins to gossip, try to change the subject. If that doesn’t work, end the conversation by excusing yourself.
- Taxes and Death; boring and sad. Don’t rain on everyone’s parade!
- Your kids (excessively); especially if people in the conversation don’t have kids. Don’t get me wrong, it’s okay to talk about your kids, just don’t try to convince people that your son will launch the next Google soon after his 6th birthday and don’t talk about them...excessively.
- Your pets (excessively); especially if people in the conversation don’t have pets. Again, you can tell a funny story about your pet, just don’t talk about how much you love them more than your human children...excessively.
- Your uber-cool job (excessively); you can tell a funny story about work if it’s relevant to the conversation. Just don’t talk about yourself…that right, excessively.
- How much you dislike something; negativity should be avoided at all costs (we all just want to have a little fun!). If you’re in a bad mood or have had a bad day...leave it at home. Debbie Downer never gets invited back!
(for my articles like this, visit my me at www.thatcoolbroad.com)
