Examples of "Should I Repeat This For The FOURTH TIme"

· Should I repeat this for the fourth time?

· How many times do I have to say this...

 Explanation:

What do these phrases really mean?

First, both say, “I’m fed up repeating myself since you won’t do what I want you to do”.

Second, they suggest there is something “wrong” with the other person because he or she isn’t responding the way you want. Like the person is stupid.

If you need to express your frustration, this isn’t the way to do it. It’s passive-aggressive and manipulative and isn’t going to help you deal with whatever is going on at that moment. It IS likely to start an argument.

 Make It Better:

If your intent is to express your frustration, here’s an example of how to do so more effectively (talking to a child).

· I’m frustrated having to ask you over and over again to clean your room. Let’s do it right now. I’ll get you started.

 With an adult:

· I’m not sure you heard what I said, before — when I asked if I could borrow some money...

· It would help me a lot if we could talk about this, but you seem to be avoiding the issue.