The bright summer sun often warrants a critical accessory – sunglasses; shades; dark glasses….
Whatever their moniker, they are lenses that help us see, when welcome sunshine can become unpleasant and at times, even dangerous. That takes care of our eyes but what about our mouths? How about some ‘conversation lenses’?
Q) What are they?
A) They are all season ‘lenses’ that empower us to effectively and successfully negotiate difficult conversations.
Q) Where do we get them?
A) These are lenses we all innately possess to some degree. The key is to keep them sharp and polished through mindful and repeated use.
When used effectively, these lenses help us see each others point-of-view, they bring into focus much needed allowances for our individuality and they become especially critical when the conversations are divergent, emotional or otherwise challenging in some way.
Allowances (or concessions), made for our individuality are the bedrock of success in any conversation. We may all look alike walking upright, using language to communicate, working with tools, etc. but our individuality in the very midst of our commonalities are undeniable. That uniqueness in each one of us sets the tone for our reactions – an inevitable part of any conversation.
Understanding where the other is coming from and reminding ourselves that things like nature, nurture and experiences are driving each of us to approach a conversation differently, helps us avoid a conversation filibuster or resolution checkmate.
Q) How do we use them effectively?
A) So glad you asked! Come back in September for our Fall 2015 blog, where you will find step-by-step directions.
See you then.