This article is good, but it seems very focused on the mediator's approach--get both parties to follow these steps. Often the relationship doesn't feel like one where I can make that kind of ask of the other person. "I read this thing about having conversations, are you willing to try it with me?" is actually a very vulnerable thing to have to say.
I would strongly recommend the book Crucial Conversations[1] in this space. I first came across it in management training I took and have recommended it to everyone: my parents, my siblings, friends who are exploring management or struggling with a relationship. It takes the approach that all you really have control over is yourself and the way you approach the conversation--how do you make it a safe space while still talking about the disagreement in a non-threatening way.
Comments
This article is good, but it seems very focused on the mediator's approach--get both parties to follow these steps. Often the relationship doesn't feel like one where I can make that kind of ask of the other person. "I read this thing about having conversations, are you willing to try it with me?" is actually a very vulnerable thing to have to say.
I would strongly recommend the book Crucial Conversations[1] in this space. I first came across it in management training I took and have recommended it to everyone: my parents, my siblings, friends who are exploring management or struggling with a relationship. It takes the approach that all you really have control over is yourself and the way you approach the conversation--how do you make it a safe space while still talking about the disagreement in a non-threatening way.
[1]: https://www.amazon.com/Crucial-Conversations-Talking-Stakes-...
Thanks. Needed something exactly like this recently. You described the problem perfectly.