I trust your week is off to a great start. In our exploration last week on “Navigating Shifting Tides in the Digital Era,” we delved into the importance of building genuine connections through effective communication. If you missed it, you can catch up on this and all my previous blogs below.
Brené Brown’s insightful words from last week resonate deeply for me: “Connection is the energy that exists between people when they feel seen, heard, and valued.” In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, how often do we create such moments?
Consider this: How intentionally do we enable others to feel seen, heard, and valued?
While we cannot control how others perceive our actions and words, we can shape our intentions in communication. When our aim is positive, and our delivery reflects that positivity, we’ve done our best—the rest lies in the other person’s perspective.
But what if someone misunderstands us or takes offense?
The key is to stay connected with our positivity, affirm our good intentions, and maintain calmness. If appropriate, inviting the other person to share their thoughts and feelings while we listen without defensiveness is crucial. Summarising what they’ve shared not only demonstrates active listening but also diffuses many situations.
In cases where unintentional offense occurred, acknowledging that fact and expressing regret for any upset caused can go a long way.
Ultimately, it’s vital to rely on what I call; “Our Internal Barometer” – knowing our intentions were good.
Conflict is often viewed as something to be avoided, yet it presents an opportunity for improvement. Brushing it aside can lead to festering issues that grow beyond their actual scope.
“Every conflict we face in life is rich with positive and negative potential. It can be a source of inspiration, enlightenment, learning, transformation, and growth—or rage, fear, shame, entrapment, and resistance.
The choice is not up to our opponents, but to us, and our willingness to face and work through them.”
-Kenneth Cloke [Mediator and author]
I leave you with that thought.
Curious to explore how I can assist you or your colleagues with Communication? Book a Complimentary Discovery Call with me HERE.
Wishing you insightful conversations and meaningful connections.
With warmest wishes,
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering you to Thrive!
