recognize early signs of problems

Brainstorm new strategies. With a clear Mutual Purpose, you can join forces in searching for a solution that serves everyone.

Taking time to address the process of how we are communicating is especially important when there are differences in our communication styles or when our mode of communication changes from what we’re used to.

Collect yourself. Breathe deeply, name your emotions, and present yourself with soothing truths that establish your safety and worth. 2. Understand. Be curious. Ask questions and ask for examples. And then just listen. Detach yourself from what is being said as though it is being said about a third person. 3. Recover. Take a time-out if needed to

“Really? From the way you’re saying that, it doesn’t sound like you are.”

the greater the shared meaning in the pool, the better the choice, the more the unity, and the stronger the conviction

One of the biggest mistakes we make is assuming that just because we’re talking, we must be solving the right problem. It’s not that simple. If you’re not addressing the right issue, you’ll end up in the same conversation over and over again.

create the key condition that allows you to talk with almost anyone about almost anything: safety

Separate fact from story. Abandon your absolute certainty by distinguishing between hard facts and your invented story.