Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most

by Douglas Stone

The gold standard here is working for mutual understanding. Not mutual agreement, necessarily, but a better understanding of each of your stories, so that you can make informed decisions (alone or together) about what to do next.

I’ve described the problem in a way we can each accept.

Andrew’s story demonstrates something that is true for all of us: we have a deep desire to feel heard, and to know that others care enough to listen.

Listening to Them Helps Them Listen to You