Better Conversations
Thoughts taken from “Better Conversations” by Jim Knight.
“What people really need is a good listening to.” MaryLou Casey
Six Conversation Beliefs
- “I see conversation partners as equals” means that we do not see ourselves as better than others and our way of interacting shows that we see value in other people.
- “I want to hear what others have to say” means that we see conversation as an opportunity to learn others ideas and hear about their experiences.
- “I believe people should have a lot of a autonomy” means we recognize that (a) not giving choice frequently means resistance, and (b) since we define who we are by the choices we make, taking choice away is the humanizing.
- “I don’t judge others” means that when I interact or observe, I resist the temptation to diminish others through critical judgements.
- “I believe conversation should be back and forth” means I go into conversations with humility, open to learning, and ready to discover I might be wrong.
- “I believe conversation should be life-giving” means that I expect conversation to be energizing, affirming, and leave one feeling better after having the conversation.