Sometimes it is hard to get out of our own way. When you’re in the middle of a difficult conversation, it’s common to focus solely on yourself: your ideas, your viewpoint, your feelings, writes James Detert. A “me-centric” approach can backfire. To achieve your goal, you need to think beyond yourself.
Detert has found that people often forget when navigating a difficult conversation, the need to craft their message while keeping the other person’s feelings and opinions in mind.
Source: Harvard Business Review, June 21, 2021. Link. Detert share common mistakes he has observed and explanations for why they often cause trouble.
. . . don’t assume your viewpoint is obvious; don’t exaggerate; don’t challenge someone’s character or integrity; don’t blame others for your feelings; don’t tell others what they should do; and don’t say “It’s not personal.” – James T. Detert
INSIGHTS: Been there? Done that? Got the training tee shirt? Old habits and our need to get what we want will always keep coming back. Use this article to reinforce what you already know and how you ultimately want to be treated yourself.