How to Explain Without Defensiveness
Yes, explanations are part of good communications. But the timing and method of explanation can make it come across as either appropriate or inappropriate.
Relationships and Marriage
How to Communicate Differences
How do effective communicators share ideas and feelings that might be at odds with what someone else is feeling, thinking, or doing without making them feel coerced or pressured? How do effective listeners receive ideas without thinking they are being controlled or manipulated? Listed below are a few best practices to consider.
Say “Yes, If …” Instead of “No, Because …”
When people ask for assistance, resources, or information, our response often reveals our attitude. Especially telling is when we respond without thought.
Dealing with Hands-Off Managers
While independence is a strong desire for most people, it has downsides. In the workplace, you miss out on collaboration, learning, exhortation, encouragement, and accountability. You miss out on the help and advocacy that engaged bosses can provide.
Dealing with Micromanagers
In their defense, they are often smart and experienced. They know a lot about what works and what doesn’t. But how much joy is it to always be told what to do? How demotivating is it to rarely use your own ideas or perform tasks the way you would like to do them?
