Tough Conversations

Hey Ya’ll

Thanks again for reading That Inclusive Lens, my bi-weekly newsletter! Question: Did you journal those self-reflection questions from the last newsletter two weeks ago? If you did, I’d love to hear about what you learned. Let me hear from you!

RESOURCE:

How to Dish Tough Love

https://www.axios.com/2023/04/14/how-to-dish-tough-love

Oh, and check out my Rebel Canvas Magazine interview:

https://canvasrebel.com/meet-ama-agyapong/ 

REVELATION:

I remember there was a season when I would write a letter to air out my grievances instead of having the conversation, but this is a better approach; the letter comes before the conversation. The article states, “Writing allows the focus to be on the problem, not the instant reaction.” Essentially, a letter/email gives people time to process their reactions and the words at hand. So they can rationally respond when you have the conversation 24-48 hours later. The article provides an incredible 8-part formula!

My 2-cents:

· Don’t forget that when you have a conversation, the goal is listening and learning more. They’ve heard enough from you; it's time for you to listen to them.

· A great start to that conversation could be, “Thanks ____ for sitting down to connect after reading my email. I really want to use this time to learn more about your perspective. So, what are your thoughts after reading the letter?”

***Then shut up and let them talk without you interrupting to defend, deflect, deny, demean, or discredit their thoughts. ***

REFLECTION QUESTIONS:

Before anything, it’s essential to do a self-check. Below are two questions you should ask yourself by journaling to assess the gravity of your bias in the issue you need to address.

1. What assumptions am I making about the person?

2. How might my personal experiences or background influence my perception of the situation?