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Difficult Conversations
July 22, 2021
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First, From the Heart
Most of us would rather avoid a difficult conversation. Why would we want to step into an uncomfortable situation when it’s much easier to turn away? No wonder so many people choose to avoid the unpleasantness inherent in such an encounter.
Compassionate leaders know that creating cultures of safety and authenticity are paramount. Not only will avoiding challenges make matters worse, we need to demonstrate the prosocial behaviors that reflect the values that we want others to adopt as well. So, we choose to face reality with courageous action. We use the opportunity to help our colleagues grow, and we grow along with them. Perhaps we collaborate and discover a powerful solution, or tackle an unmet personal or organizational need. We build trust, respect, and resilience with each encounter by showing up with an open, compassionate heart.
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Best of the Blog
Difficult Conversations
Difficult conversations – those discussions we know that we need to have, but dread having – can be difficult not only to initiate, but also to engage in a way that continues to enhance your relationships and trust. Courage, non-judgmental awareness, and compassionate communications, all arising from a place of self-compassionate anchoring, are the compassionate leadership skills to bring to your next difficult conversation. Read more.
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Practice Matters
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
We can all recall moments when we surmounted the odds, overcame what seemed impossible, or crossed a distant finish line with record speed. Often in times of trouble or tragedy we rise to meet or exceed the occasion. Surely we have all witnessed the remarkable capacity within our human body, mind, and spirit. Why then, are we so readily available to be our worst enemy and create our own obstacles?
The innate pull into our negative thoughts, beliefs, and emotions is a powerful force. Just the anticipation of an upcoming difficult situation may cause us to envision a bad outcome before it ever happens. Can you feel the discomfort or contraction in your body before even dealing with it?
The key is to notice what is happening as it is unfolding. Then you can choose to bring in a different response and feed a new narrative. What if we stay open and curious instead? How might we show up differently without expectation? With intention, awareness, and courage, we can learn to shift our focus. Each time we see even a little progress, let’s savor it. Soon enough, we come to understand that anything is possible.
When can we practice? Always!
If you'd like to explore additional Practice Matters, you can find them here.
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Recommended Reads
Compassionate Conversations: How to Speak and Listen from the Heart
by Diane Musho Hamilton, Gabriel Menegale Wilson, and Kimberly Myosai Loh
As communication has moved from the public square to online forums inhabited by dehumanizing trolls and a “cancel culture” that leaps to judgment with no engagement or due process, can we find a better way?
In Compassionate Conversations, the authors dig into topics as varied as power, privilege, political correctness, and bias to show us that no matter the hurdles, compassionate, productive conversations are possible for those willing to proceed with kindness and a caring recognition for the other. Read more.
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Fall Training Programs
Accepting Applications Now. Early Bird Discounts Available thru July 31.
Compassionate Leadership and Resilience Training for Global Health Leaders
8 Week Course – Attend online Sept 28- Nov. 16
Leaders from around the world are already benefitting from the groundbreaking training program developed in partnership with the Focus Area for Compassion and Ethics at the Task Force for Global Health. We are pleased to announce that registration is now open for the next cohort starting on September 28, 2021. Early Bird Discounts available thru July 31.
Join your global health colleagues from six continents who are bringing their new compassionate leadership experiences and practices to work in their organizations and lives. Find out more and register now.
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Compassionate Leadership and Resilience Training for Business and Nonprofit Leaders
8 Week Course – Attend online Sept 29- Nov. 17
Join leaders from finance, technology, education, HR, healthcare, leadership development, and coaching as we build a more compassionate future together. Registration is now open for the upcoming cohort starting September 29, 2021. Early Bird Discounts available thru July 31.
Our signature 8-week training program will build your compassion from the inside out and connect you with a powerful global peer community for ongoing growth, inspiration, and support. Find out more and register now.
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