Did you know that June is effective communication month? And since our Virtual Book Tour this Thursday features Dr. Jed Diamond and his newly published book, Mr. Mean, the blog posts this week will be about how we talk and listen to each other.
Ready for your ‘to do’ list? When addressing a sensitive subject, talk about a specific outcome you would like to achieve. Be honest and direct about what you have to say. As your body language, content and tone of voice really matter, calibrate your emotions and monitor any negative comments. Try to take some responsibility by using “I-focused” statements and be clear that what you’re saying is not necessarily universal but your own opinion.
Try to listen closely to your partner’s response without planning a rebuttal. And look at the issues from their perspective, which may be very different from yours. If you can be empathic to their viewpoint by asking questions, both of you may be more open to understanding the other position. And what could be better than that?
If you’re beginning to think about Father’s Day, read more about effective communication on our website, HerMentorCenter.com, in an article entitled ‘Father’s Day, Boomer Men and Communication.’ And while you’re there, look around for other information that may interest you. The Library is full of articles with practical solutions to family problems.
