I hope you’re keeping well and thriving!
Last time, we explored “Shaping Dialogue with Smarter Questions” and when we learn to ask more thoughtful, expansive questions, we create richer conversations, deeper connections, and better solutions. If you missed it, you can catch up here
We’ve all been there – caught in a heated debate where no one seems to be listening, just waiting for their turn to speak. In these moments, conversation becomes less about understanding and more about winning.
But what if the goal wasn’t to win, but to co-create?
Reframing Conflict: From Opposition to Opportunity
Language is a powerful tool. It can divide us or bring us together. Often, the way we frame our words determines whether we create walls or bridges in conversations.
Consider these subtle shifts in language:
X “That won’t work because …” ? YES: “How might we make this work differently?”
X “I don’t agree with you.” ? YES: “I see it differently – here’s why.”
X “You’re wrong.” ? YES: “What if we looked at it from another angle?”
These simple adjustments turn debate into dialogue, allowing for curiosity, collaboration, and new possibilities to emerge.
Beyond Either / Or: Embracing Both / And Thinking
We often fall into the trap of either / or thinking – where there’s a “right” side and a “wrong” side. Regenerative thinking encourages us to embrace both / and possibilities.
For example:
X “Should we prioritise people or the planet?”
YES: “How might we create solutions that support both people and the planet?”
Shifting to a both / and mindset opens up more expansive, creative, and sustainable solutions.
The Language of Collaboration
Here are a few ways to make your language more co-creative:
YES: Replace “but” with “and.” (“I see your point, and what if we also considered…”)
YES: Ask “What’s possible?” instead of “What’s wrong?”
YES: Seek to understand before being understood. (“Tell me more about your perspective.“)
Small Shifts, Big Impact
By being intentional with our words, we can turn friction into flow, resistance into resonance, and conflict into co-creation.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.”
– Albert Einstein –
What’s one way you’ve shifted a conversation from conflict to co-creation? Let’s keep the dialogue going.
Wishing you a week of meaningful conversations,
With warmest wishes,
Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
P.S. Feel free to share your experiences and insights!
P.P.S. Book a complimentary Clarity Session with me here
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