The Art of Conversation
"I believe that words are strong, that they can overwhelm what we fear when fear seems more awful than life is good." - Andrew Solomon
Photo by Cody Engel @codyengel
One of the gifts we can give to our family, children, students, and humanity is our time, our attention, and, when appropriate, unleashing the beautiful art of conversation. Whether we are in person or in a virtual setting, we need the person to whom we are speaking to be the world and the universe. Gravity has pulled us into their orbit. This means set aside cellphones, devices, controls, preconceived notions and judgements, maintain eye contact and follow the trajectory of their dialogue, the direction of their feelings, and the gravity of the situation.
Where do we start? We start with understanding that we don’t understand. While it may seem counterintuitive, it places us in a better position to listen, learn, be curious and focused.
Don’t assume! If you don’t understand, ask and connect the dots of what the speaker is saying by rephrasing it or painting a stroke to the conversation related to what they are talking about, not another painting, just a stroke, and let them continue.
Here is a list of conversation strokes (continuers) especially valuable when there are lulls and the canvas needs to be continued.
Conversation Continuers
Photo by @CDC
What else can you tell me about that?
No way! Can you tell me more?
Seriously? Then what happened?
Interesting. Is there more I can hear about?
How do feel about what happened?
And this is making you think….?
So now, what are you planning to do?
I see. So what’s your next step?
So then, how did you feel about that?
I like listening to you. Can we talk more another time?
What are some conversation starters and continuers that you use? Comment below and let’s continue the dialogue.
GIFT ALERT / GIVEAWAY
Photo by @Stephanie Brown
I would like to gift to everyone who reads this blog, during May 2022, Mental Health Wellness Month, my children’s story app, “Talk About the Monster”. It is a whimsical little story for children to take a little big step to face anxiety and fear. Click on the hyperlink to download your copy. Please share the news with your community.