It's difficult to think under stress and we aren't designed to do it. It's best to be prepared for situations like this.

You need to develop muscle memory that you can use without having to think of it. To do so, try having to role-play conversations with someone you trust that they'll take you seriously when you do this exercise.

At the moment that you're in a position to make a decision that may be unpopular to the people you're working with you may think that it's wiser to not show any vulnerability, however, not showing vulnerability makes it easier for them to vilify you and your decision.

You ...