Monday, December 8, 2014

Seven Days, Seven Scary Things!

On December 1st, I wrote about my plan to do one thing each day that scares me.  Well, I have gone through seven days in December and done seven things that scared me and I just noticed something.  Not one of those scary things included a parachute, a Youtube video, or local law enforcement!

All seven things did include some kind of conversation.  Not a single one was confrontational or even a disagreement.  It made me wonder, what kinds of things can make it hard to chat?

It may be tough to fully listen.  I have always told students, "Try to listen with your eyes, your ears, and your heart."  Listening with all three can be a challenge!  Empathic listening, from Habit Five, is something I believe in.  It is also not always easy!

It may be tough to be honest.  As we all know, honesty is the best policy...unless it isn't.  If we are ever out in public and I ask you if my clothes match, please just say, "Yes!"  If I ask you before I leave my house, be honest.

I think the toughest challenge may be to stay true to your beliefs.  When people disagree, conversations can be tough, especially if there are several correct thoughts, or answers, or beliefs.  Sometimes, we whitewash what we say to be sure that we don't offend each other.  Sometimes, we defend out beliefs so strongly, we dishonor a differing opinion.  Can you stay true to your beliefs while honoring someone who thinks differently?

I am sure there is much more to this entire concept than I have written here.  I should re-read Fierce Conversations, by Susan Scott.

As I forge on through December with my plan to do one thing each day that scares me, I'll be watching my conversations to see if I can learn more about why they can be scary.  I'll also continue to steer clear from local law enforcement!


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