Communication Weed #3: About Being Right Part 2
by Dr. Coach Love
Continuing… When conversation is the communication of facts, for example about sports/world statistics or historical information, there can be “right” (for the moment) answers. However, many conversations are based on emotions as well as personal interpretation and application of facts — which then become opinions. Or maybe you prefer to call them well-informed opinions.
Often communication centers on personal values. Nevertheless, opinions and values are not subject to being labeled right or wrong—merely same or different, agreeable or disagreeable, and respected or not. When you are in a discussion with your spouse, seek to understand and not to be “right”. Establish respect for opposing viewpoints. Pushing your opinion as being “right” makes the other party “wrong.” This creates overt resistance or stonewalling.
Here are 4 of 9 coaching tips to consider for eradicating this communication weed: 9 Communication Weed Pullers
- 1. Learn that most conversation is based on opinion and feeling, even when “facts” are involved.
- 2. Develop the ability to let go of a topic and not be stuck going in circles.
- 3. Agree to disagree.
- 4. Soften your presentation to show respect for differences.
Be sure to check back in Part 3 for tips 5-9.
This is my story and I’m sticking to it.
Regards,
Dr. Coach Love
MORE INFO LINKS: Posts- Pt1 3-06-08, Pt3 3-08-08 : Reflections-Need to Be Right, One Being Right In Conversations
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