Having Difficult Conversations
Controversial issues may cause us to avoid discussions with family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, or strangers who have a different point of view than we do. Here are some quick tips that may help you to have those conversations.
Ten Steps for Conversations that Encourage Listening
Set the stage: plan a time and place to discuss concerns.
Determine who needs to be involved in the conversation.
Start the conversation; observe without evaluating; use “I” messages.
Listen to understand and identify needs.
Ask, don’t make assumptions.
Separate the problem from the person.
Brainstorm options to resolve the problem.
Choose a mutually agreeable solution.
Reiterate and confirm agreements and follow-up steps.
Agree on a process to resolve differences in the future.
Resources for Difficult Conversations
www.livingroomconversations.org
www.braverangels.org
www.sidewayspod.org