Dolly has a razor-sharp wit that she uses to build bridges, not burn them. When a reporter asked her about a rumored plastic surgery disaster, she replied, “Honey, I’m not ashamed of having work done. If I see a droop, I’ll scoop!” She doesn’t take herself seriously, but she takes her craft very seriously.
'I ain’t dead yet!': Dolly Parton posts video reassuring fans worried
This is a masterclass in emotional intelligence. She deflects negativity with a laugh, which disarms tension and makes people feel at ease. Try it next time you feel attacked; say something self-deprecating and sweet instead of getting defensive.