We have all been faced with a difficult conversation, even more so in the past few years. Fortunately, there are methods for reasonably discussing our differing viewpoints.
For a work diversity assignment I had to watch a film with individuals paired up from the opposite sides of three issues; 1) gun control, 2) abortion and 3) immigration. The individuals had been coached well on how to have respectful, challenging, and emotional conversations. It was incredible to me that after each side took the time to truly listen, both sides wanted to work together to find common ground. The only pair that did not was the immigration because one individual refused to listen and kept interrupting. The impact of listening was powerful and definitely a skill I need to improve!
For a work diversity assignment I had to watch a film with individuals paired up from the opposite sides of three issues; 1) gun control, 2) abortion and 3) immigration. The individuals had been coached well on how to have respectful, challenging, and emotional conversations. It was incredible to me that after each side took the time to truly listen, both sides wanted to work together to find common ground. The only pair that did not was the immigration because one individual refused to listen and kept interrupting. The impact of listening was powerful and definitely a skill I need to improve!