Datebook

7 of 10
The Homework-Assignment Goodbye
You had the nicest time at the dinner party/playdate/poker night, which took three months and an online poll to schedule, and so upon leaving, you exclaim, "We have to get together again soon—maybe even next week. Call me!" What you meant to say is, "How much fun was that?!" or "I so loved seeing you," but without meaning to, you've turned a pleasantry into an obligation. Emphasize in your goodbye what you really felt—the joy part—and if you actually do want to see the person again soon, you can extend a specific invitation...later (e.g., "Would you like to go see the new Artist We Both Enjoy exhibit next Saturday at 3?").