As you read this post choose at least one of the statements below to start a conversation with an important person in your life. Think about someone who has been on your mind but you may not have talked to in a while. Maybe a person with whom you’ve had a disagreement or misunderstanding (an in-law, or an ex). How about a person you communicate with every day, but you’ve held back feelings, or said damaging things to in anger? Yep, you just saw that person in your mind… dont try to change it now…THAT ONE!
You CAN choose more than one if you’d like, the more the merrier!
OK, so here’s what I’m asking you to do, as much for yourself as for the other person…
- Call the person or better yet, see them face-to-face
- this IS NOT a text or email exercise
- if you can’t do it voice-to voice (unless limited by a disability) wait until you can
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Before you reach out to the person take several deep breaths
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think about the reason you chose them, and prepare to tell them “why“
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Consider what you want them to hear you say
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for clarity, make note of your thoughts
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make sure your thoughts are clear in your own mind first
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Focus on them and only them
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have the time for a real conversation, don’t rush it
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turn your phone off
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allow ZERO interruptions
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Be sincere and open
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tell the truth, now is not the time for exaggeration or lying
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have “no agenda’ or preconceived outcome
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Listen to their response, if any
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do not speak over their reply
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be comfortable with long pauses
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if they ask a question, answer it
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Accept their response
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don’t argue or challenge
- don’t judge the outcome
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Here are The 15 BEST things you can say…
THE 10 BEST!
THE TOP 5!
And the NUMBER ONE thing you can say is…
Why don’t we do this more often? Why do we wait until its eulogy time? Why do we hold grudges? Even if you did not receive a positive response, I hope it felt good to get it off your chest. How did expressing your feelings feel to you? Did you repair an otherwise ugly situation? Did they believe you? Why or why not? Did you make someone’s day?
Kindness and love have been known to prevent loneliness, suicidal thoughts, depression and many other diseases.
Don’t wait! Let them know how you feel today.
CreativelyAble 