Currently our society is overwhelmed with disrespectful communication and relationships. Bullying and verbal abuse, two of the many forms of disrespectful interactions, are common placed and need to be dealt with effectively. Dealing with obstacles can be a challenging aspect of the journey however it is worth tackling skilfully. For anti-bullying check out Reject Bullying. Here the focus is on 'Difficult Conversations'.
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Sometimes we are told Difficult Conversations are a problem, something to avoid, however when we know how to handle Difficult Conversations well, they are the way to developing more inclusive, empowered and productive pathways forward. Pathways where everyone matters.
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The truth is, Difficult Conversations are natural,
they are part of being human,
part of living life.
Importantly all conversations, including Difficult Conversations
are meant to be
FUN
they are meant to
Flow, be Unique, and Nourish us.
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At the same time Difficult Conversations do require understanding and skills. The issue is, too often, we have not been taught effective ways to manage Difficult Conversations. How to maintain Flow, embrace Uniqueness and use communication to Nourish. By gaining even some of this understanding and these skills you can develop your ability to manage Difficult Conversations Respectfully.
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IT IS UP TO YOU.
While there is no magic formula for resolving Difficult Conversations, there are Magic Keys that enable us to manage Difficult Conversations with Respect, and for enhancing our experience of life. They include:
Ownership
Responsibility
Self-Care
Self-Determination
Mindset Development
Skill Development
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A Difficult Conversations is difficult because
you are having difficulty with it.
Dealing with obstacles of Difficult Conversations takes 'know how' and confidence in our ability to practice the relevant skills. At the same time, it is important to be able to recognise when a difficult conversation is currently beyond our current dynamic tension, that is our ability with a little stretch, and acknowledge that.
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In addition, it is critical we recognise the difference between ‘Difficult Conversations’ and ‘Difficult People’. They are significantly different and need to be acknowledged as such. This is because, for effective respectful outcomes, they need to be dealt with differently.
If you want assistance with this consider either my course ‘Managing Difficult Conversations’ alternatively small group or individual coaching maybe your preference.
SKILL DEVELOPMENT
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While Communication is an essential skill we have been developing since the beginning of our life,
we rarely get quality, intentional training in communication skills. Even more rarely in managing Difficult Conversations Respectfully. Yet we can enhance our ability to manage Difficult Conversations significantly by developing skills in doing so Essential Skills include:
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Emphatic Listening
Self Awareness
Self Reflection
Understanding Factors that can create Difficult Conversations
Recognising the Four Modes of Difficult Conversations
Adapting to specific Difficult Conversations
Working within 'window of tolerance'
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MINDSET DEVELOPMENT
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Communication is strongly influenced by our beliefs and attitudes, habits of thinking, if you want to experience Respectful Communication and Relationships you'll be powerfully served by developing your mindset to support such interactions.
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RESPONSIBILITY
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While there are many ways to alter, enhance and develop the skills that reinforce Respectful Communication and Relationships it always comes back to you selecting, acting on and accepting the outcome of your actions.
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OWNERSHIP
By claiming ownership of your communication experiences you are able to alter your experiences.
Ownership means you accept your part in all communications and that it is up to you to do what it takes to develop your ability to have the communication experiences you desire.
Developing your ability to manage Difficult Conversations with Respect is a journey I invite you to travel with me. To travel on this journey I have provided a number of pathways.
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There are: Practical Tips and Recommended Resources that enable you to explore on your own.
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For Powerful Outcomes you can participate in:
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Practice Sessions
A Course
A Presentation or
Coaching
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