TURNING CONFRONTATIONS INTO CONVERSATIONS

Most of us don’t particularly like confrontation, and many of us avoid it at all costs — unfortunately to our own detriment.

Being able to identify some distinctions between a Conversation and Confrontation and choosing to act accordingly after might improve your relationships and your health!

Intention

What is your intention going into the talk? Is it to defend yourself/your idea or attack the other party? Is it to listen, learn and understand the other party? Is it to really communicate in such a way that the other party understands?

Assumptions

What are your assumptions of confrontation? Are all confrontations good/bad to you? Does disagreeing with my ideas/opinions automatically make it a confrontation? Do confrontations destroy relationships? Do you believe confrontations can be healthy? Or is it even a confrontation to start with?

All or nothing

Do you tend to bring your entire laundry list of ‘dislikes’ or the biggest challenge into the talk? Do you notice yourself picking the person you avoid most to confront first? Or do you start with smaller challenges with people whom you are certain will not disown you after?

As with any new habit or skill, it gets easier with practice. Soon you will be able to identify when and how to speak up and express yourself or message clearly and effectively. Confronting someone in an assertive, calm and kind manner is absolutely possible.

‘‘ Confronting someone is an art. ’’

Take a small step starting today!