Today’s Love and Logic Insiders Club e-Newsletter featured tips that apply to make difficult conversations in life. The specific context was teacher-conferences, but it noted the interpersonal applications as well.
Charles Fay excerpted some of his father Jim Fay’s advice (excerpt):
• Remember that parents who look angry and resistant are usually hurting inside.
• When we remember this, it becomes much easier to avoid becoming defensive or angry ourselves.
• The most powerful skill involves listening and allowing parents to vent about their frustrations…before sharing our ideas.
• “Tell me more.” “What would you like to see here?” or “How long have you felt this way?” are great responses to show parents how much you care…and to get them talking.
• Share your ideas only after making sure that the parent is ready. Asking, “Would you like to hear my thoughts on this?” is a good way of showing respect and testing to see if they are ready to listen.