Getting ready for an uncomfortable conversation

Like many people, I’d prefer to avoid tough conversations. Yet, addressing such topics is the only way to improve our relationships, our results, and the status quo.

Here are a few tips that I’ve learned from @LyssaAdkins to setup the conversation up for success…

First, take a few minutes to think about the issue from three different perspectives. An exercise called 3-2-1 guides us to envision ourselves first in the 3rd person perspective observing the conversation, “they”. Then, a 2nd person perspective “you”, imagine saying “you did xyz, you Abc”. And then finally an inclusive perspective saying “we” and inviting a shared solution.

Next, I write out what I intend to say and how I want to be received.

And finally, just before the actual conversation, I review my intention as written above.

Try it, you will be amazed at the clarity with which you enter the conversation and with your ability to stay present and on track in the heat of the moment. This will honor the other person and enable productive dialog.

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Tags: communication, leadership, learning, reflection