What active listening techniques help you stay calm and focused during high-conflict situations?

3 How to paraphrase and summarize effectively

Another active listening technique that can help you stay calm and focused during high-conflict situations is paraphrasing and summarizing. Paraphrasing is repeating what the other person said in your own words, to check your understanding and to show that you are listening. Summarizing is condensing the main points and emotions of the conversation, to review what has been discussed and to identify areas of agreement and disagreement. Paraphrasing and summarizing can help you clarify the issues, avoid miscommunication, and acknowledge the other person's feelings and concerns. They can also help you restate your own position and interests, and to bridge the gap between the different perspectives.

4 How to ask open-ended questions constructively

Asking open-ended questions is another active listening technique that can help you stay calm and focused during high-conflict situations. Open-ended questions are questions that cannot be answered with a simple yes or no, but require more explanation and elaboration. They can help you explore the underlying causes, needs, and interests of the conflict, and to generate possible solutions and alternatives. They can also help you express your curiosity and interest in the other person's perspective, and to encourage them to share more information and feelings. However, you need to ask open-ended questions constructively, and avoid questions that are leading, accusatory, or judgmental, as they can trigger defensiveness and resistance.

5 How to use empathy and validation appropriately

Empathy and validation are active listening techniques that can help you stay calm and focused during high-conflict situations. Empathy is the ability to put yourself in the other person's shoes, and to understand their emotions and experiences. Validation is the act of acknowledging and accepting the other person's feelings and thoughts, without necessarily agreeing with them. Empathy and validation can help you build rapport and trust with the other person, and to reduce their anger and frustration. They can also help you manage your own emotions, and to avoid taking things personally or reacting impulsively. However, you need to use empathy and validation appropriately, and avoid being insincere, patronizing, or manipulative, as they can damage your credibility and relationship.

6 How to give and receive feedback respectfully

Giving and receiving feedback is an active listening technique that can help you stay calm and focused during high-conflict situations. Feedback is the exchange of information and opinions about the performance, behavior, or outcome of a situation. Feedback can help you improve your skills, learn from your mistakes, and achieve your goals. It can also help you address the issues, expectations, and concerns of the other person, and to find common ground and solutions. However, you need to give and receive feedback respectfully, and avoid feedback that is vague, harsh, or personal, as it can hurt the feelings, self-esteem, or motivation of the other person.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?