Manage Difficult Interactions in Three Steps

Instead of managing difficult interactions, we sometimes entertain the worst-case scenario. Thinking about the worst-case affects our ability to be objective. At that point, we’re not at our best.
 
I offer that making the best of a difficult interaction, whether it’s personal or professional, is a three-step process.
 
Read on to find out what you can do to get through a tough discussion.
 
Step One: Before the interaction (choose what’s best for you)

1. Be proactive and establish a time to convene, don’t leave them hanging
2. Take care of your needs to feel comfortable: quick walk, deep breaths, snack or glass of water
3. Clear your mind of unrealistic fears, relax
4. Gather information that could be helpful to everyone during the discussion
5. Establish your boundaries for the least you’ll accept from the interaction – be realistic
6. Talk about your boundaries with a trustworthy and objective person – be open to making adjustments
7. Take care of your spirit and find your optimism
8. Smile, walk tall, make eye contact, and proceed

 
Step Two: During the Interaction

1. Listen closely and openly -- avoid negative thoughts and avoid planning what you’re going to say next
2. Find your “emotional quiet space” and remain there – don’t join any escalation of emotions
3. Avoid interrupting or correcting others while they are explaining their position
4. Stay focused – don’t mentally plan your next steps, there may be a shift that changes everything
5. Use empathy and understanding – ask questions and listen to the answers
6. Remain open-minded and curious throughout the discussion
7. Remember: to understand the other party’s point of view is not giving up your power

 
Step Three: After the Interaction

1. Take a deep breath, smile, and be glad that you got through the discussion
2. Debrief by yourself – What did you think would happen? What really happened?
3. Debrief with a trustworthy and objective person – be open to making adjustments to your thinking
4. Commit to your next steps with timelines
5. As before, take care of your needs to feel comfortable

 
Want to schedule a brief no-judgement discussion of your current situation? Contact my offices at (336) 999-4533 during regular business hours (Eastern Time), email me at DonnaColes.Coach@gmail.com or, Click the following link to schedule
https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=18102228 

Until then…