Having a hard conversation doesn’t have to be “mean” or adversarial. Holding up a kind, compassionate mirror to someone to empower them to see the value inside themselves. It’s about the “how” you have that conversation… Here’s some quick tips for an effective discussion (even when it’s a tough one):
1️⃣ Listen with presence. Be one-minded and in the moment. Get off your phone (or laptop) for crying out loud!
2️⃣ Ask open-minded questions. “What are you thinking about this?” “What would be helpful for us to discuss?”
3️⃣ Reflect back what you think you hear.
4️⃣ Ask permission to give feedback. “Would it be helpful if I share with you what I have noticed?” “What it be okay if we chatted about X, Y, Z?”
5️⃣ Listen. Yup. We are back to #1. You know why? It’s THAT important.
Looking for ways to put these communication tips into action? Dr. Drapkin’s new book, The Motivational Interviewing Path to Personal Change, offers a self-help approach to Motivational Interviewing (MI). It can help you navigate difficult conversations and empower yourself (and others) to make positive changes. Learn more about this innovative approach to creating the life you want by clicking here.
Quote reference: Edutopia – George Lucas Educational Foundation
