Crucial Conversations

I recently attended a workshop called "Crucial Conversations." It was a two-day process presented by four trainers. The presenters provided case studies and “tools for talking when stakes are high.” They taught us how to handle disagreements, anger, misunderstandings, broken relationships, and other difficult issues. It was quite revealing to see the roadblocks people set up in family and working situations and how to overcome the obstacles in order to have a meaningful dialogue. We looked at motives, safety issues, stress responses, listening skills, and word games. We saw videos of actual situations and what made them fail or what made them work. I learned that if both sides feel safe, they can talk about almost anything. It requires taking risks and being willing to change. I also found out that it takes a lot of practice because sometimes emotions get in the way and we don’t respond with our best selves. It’s no wonder that the book Crucial Conversations has sold two million copies. Many of us need help in having a dialogue with people who see things differently. I highly recommend the workshop and the book.