In difficult conversations, shift your focus from attempting to control the other person to controlling your own reactions and responses, as this approach leads to greater success and better outcomes.
In disagreements or situations requiring a thoughtful response, consciously make your breath the ‘first word’ before speaking, allowing time to slow down the moment and maintain a sense of control.
Practice the ‘conversational breath’ – a silent double inhale through your nose (3 seconds, then 2 more at the top) followed by a full exhale through your nose – to calm your nervous system and respond thoughtfully when agitated.
Develop self-awareness and actively manage the state of your nervous system, recognizing that your internal state directly influences the quality and energy of your communication.
Understand that confidence is an outcome, not a prerequisite, for effective communication; actively cultivate it by using your assertive voice in conversations.
To build strong connections in conversations, ensure you both truly understand what the other person is saying and acknowledge their perspective, as both components are essential.
When someone says something you dislike, pause to question why they might be saying it and consider their underlying struggles or influences, rather than immediately reacting to the surface-level statement.
Intentionally slow down the pace of your conversations, especially when discussing difficult or worrying topics, as this practice consistently leads to better outcomes and clearer perspective.
When expressing a differing opinion, use phrases like ‘I see things differently’ or ‘I look at it another way’ instead of ‘I disagree’ to prevent defensiveness and encourage open dialogue.
To improve communication skills, concentrate on applying new techniques to your immediate next conversation, making the goal more manageable and less overwhelming.
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