{"id":5002,"date":"2024-08-30T11:20:04","date_gmt":"2024-08-30T10:20:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thrive-coaching.biz\/test.thrive-coaching.biz\/?p=5002"},"modified":"2024-10-02T15:41:51","modified_gmt":"2024-10-02T14:41:51","slug":"thought-for-the-week-talking-with-or-talking-at","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thrive-coaching.biz\/test.thrive-coaching.biz\/2024\/08\/30\/thought-for-the-week-talking-with-or-talking-at\/","title":{"rendered":"Thought for the Week \u2013 Talking with or Talking at?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Talking-at-or-With\"Welcome back! Last week\u2019s Thought was \u201cWhy Empathy is Your Superpower<\/em>\u201d because it empowers us to connect with others on a profound level. When we practice empathy, we tap into an extraordinary ability to understand and feel what others are experiencing and bridge gaps and resolve conflicts. If you missed it, you can catch up here<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n

In our fast-paced world, communication is everywhere – emails, meetings, texts, and calls. But how often do we stop to consider how<\/u><\/em> we’re communicating? Are we genuinely engaging in meaningful exchanges, or are we just delivering our message?<\/p>\n

This week let\u2019s focus on the concept of talking with<\/u><\/em>, people, not at<\/u><\/em> people. Can you relate to this? How does it feel when you experience someone talking at you rather than with you?<\/p>\n

I’ve noticed this happening more frequently as people become increasingly busy and distracted. While we can empathise with someone who is under pressure in a given moment, what happens when this behaviour isn\u2019t just a one-off and becomes ongoing? How does it affect the relationship?<\/p>\n

When we speak with someone, we\u2019re not just sharing our thoughts. Even if this is a quick chat that takes less than a minute, we\u2019re opening a dialogue, inviting the other person to share theirs too. It\u2019s a two-way street where both parties feel heard, valued, and respected.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, talking at someone often feels like a monologue – a one-sided conversation where the other person\u2019s input is neither sought nor valued. This can lead to misunderstandings, frustration, and even disengagement.<\/p>\n

Why does it matter?<\/strong><\/p>\n

When we talk with someone, we engage in a dialogue that values the thoughts, feelings, and perspectives of both parties. This type of communication fosters connection, understanding, and collaboration. It\u2019s about creating a space where everyone feels heard and respected.<\/p>\n

In contrast, talking at someone is often one-sided. It\u2019s a way of communicating where the speaker\u2019s primary goal is to deliver a message, often without considering how it\u2019s received or whether the other person has had a chance to contribute. This can leave the listener feeling disconnected, undervalued, or frustrated.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

“<\/em><\/strong>There\u2019s a difference between giving directions and giving direction. One is talking at people the other is talking with them.<\/em><\/strong>“<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

-Simon Sinek-<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

This week, I invite you to reflect on your interactions:<\/p>\n