Getting Comfortable Talking
Here are some extracts from pieces we have written for The Male Hugs #Talktober campaign. Hopefully this helps get the conversations started. There is a lot you can't do right now but one thing you can do is talk.
However starting the conversation with someone you care about can be tough, here are some ideas to help.
Ice Breakers
- I just thought I’d call to see how you are?
- It’s been too long and I just wanted to say hi.
- I was thinking about you recently and thought I`d call.
- I was thinking about (a common of interest) and thought of you.
- I have realised how important talking is and am making an effort to connect.
- How are you going / How are you finding lockdown?
- I miss our catch ups, thought I would say hello and see how you're going?
- How are you feeling about lockdown?
Follow ups
- How is your ISO life?
- How are you feeling about lockdown?
- What are you most looking forward to after lockdown?
- When do you want to catch up again?
The conversation:
- If you want someone to open it really helps if you share your own feelings and experience. Help the person see they’re not alone. Talk about your experiences during lockdown might be a good way of starting a dialogue. Be open and authentic yourself.
- Be Positive, talk about wellbeing, maybe how you are exercising or any positive distractions and hobbies. How hard is it to train for a marathon when you can only go 5kms from how.
- Try to have a laugh, and remember happier times.
- The most important part of a conversation is listening, yes that's right a conversation is a two way street and by saying nothing you are listening and this lets your friend know they are heard. Ask open ended questions about what they are doing and how they are feeling
- If you know the person, make plans for the future, even if they are not concrete it`s a nice idea to pencil in a game of golf, a coffee or a couple of beers
- Be consistent and available, always offer another time to chat.
Throughout the month of October, men will be encouraged to talk to a family member or friend. Men from all walks in life in Australia will be involved from well known celebrities (Daryl Braithwaite and Ross Wilson, Matthew Richardson, Dane Swan and Josh Frydenberg) to someone you may know who lives on your street.
Take the Talktober challenge and call a buddy every day for the month of Talktober. Partners and friends can participate as well by supporting someone talking the challenge too.
https://themalehug.com.au/talktober/