“I’m only joking.”

“Just Kidding”

“I wasn’t serious.”

Really? How would I tell… You deadpan sarcasm so much that I can’t figure out which of your statements are serious and which of them are actually playful humor.

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If the previous section strikes a cord with you, it is time to rethink your communication style. Better yet, read this to someone who works closely with you AND who will tell you the truth. If they say it ‘might describe you on occasion’ (which is their polite & honest way of saying YES) then you do have a communication problem. Sarcasm is an easy, painful and lazy communication pattern. Leaders communicate straight on about issues. Leaders hold back unnecessary comments. Leaders measure their words knowing that they have impact. 

• Never communicate truth through sarcasm – go head first into the issues OR don’t worry about it.
• If sarcasm becomes more than 25% of your ‘style’ with any individual, you don’t really have a relationship with them.
• Observe other really sarcastic people and reflect deeply on your opinion of them AND other leaders’ opinion of them.