🀲🏽 The Second Principle of Difficult Conversations


​

The Police said it best...

Sending out an S.O.S
Sending out an S.O.S
Sending out an S.O.S

Obviously they were talking about;

Solidarity
​Over
​Self-righteousness

This is the second principle of how to have better difficult conversations.

In difficult conversations, what would it mean to focus on solidarity rather than proving you’re right? Co-operation comes from recognising what unites you, not what divides you. Before the conversation, reflect on shared goals to ensure you approach it from a collaborative, rather than adversarial, mindset.

For example, if you’re a leader addressing a team conflict, remember that everyone ultimately wants the project to succeed. Instead of asserting your authority, you could say, β€œWe both want the best outcome. How can we combine our approaches to achieve that?” A well-timed open question does wonders.

If we look at the same situation through a design lens, rather than doggedly enforcing your idea, you might say, β€œWe both care about creating a great user experience. How can we integrate our perspectives to reach that goal?”

By committing to finding common ground rather than seeking validation, you shift the conversation towards co-operation and mutual respect.

This approach not only de-escalates conflict but also strengthens relationships and builds trust. When solidarity is the priority, difficult conversations become more productive and meaningful for everyone involved.

You've got this.

Love,

PS. Next week we'll explore the third principle of how to have better difficult conversations: Exploration over Defensiveness (the plot thickens). πŸ‘¨πŸ»β€πŸ³

​

If you like this, please share it.

If you believe in our work and think we can support people in your network, please forward this newsletter on.

​

PO Box 455
Ashburton, 3147
​Unsubscribe Β· Preferences​

This Human by Melis Senova

Enabling senior design professionals to be more influential within their organisations. ✨ Author of this human and design character, published by BIS Publishers.πŸ“š

Read more from This Human by Melis Senova

When's the last time you did a self-check in on your emotional health? Emotional health is the art of recognising and managing your inner world with clarity. It helps you navigate life’s challenges thoughtfully rather than reactively. It is the gateway to emotional mastery. When emotional mastery is achieved, the heart trusts the mind, and the mind trusts the heart.- Brendon Burchard Here’s a brief overview of four essential elements of emotional health that support emotional mastery: Self...

Arguably one of the greatest inventions of all time is the wheel. Wheels help us get from here to there with more ease. They offer a smoother ride. So, how can we use a wheel for self-care? Introducing the Wellness Wheel This version builds on the original 'six dimensions of wellness', developed in the late 1970s by Dr Bill Hettler, co-founder of the National Wellness Institute. It is an holistic approach to understanding and promoting well-being. His framework aimed to encourage individuals...

Tragedy or comedy? First the tragedy. Here comes a sad story... At the time of writing this newsletter, both my parents have just passed away. First my mother five weeks ago, and then, just this week, my father also left his body. My parents had been divorced for 45 years, so their passing was somewhat of a tragic coincidence. As you can imagine, it's an overwhelming experience. Two funerals to attend and all that comes with them. I've been deep in reflection. Part of that reflection is about...