Navigating Difficult Conversations and Connection During The Holidays
The holiday season is often a time for people to connect, express gratitude, and engage with each other. However, sometimes strong differences of opinions and miscommunication get in the way of connecting with your loved ones. Then, communication becomes even more difficult when discussing major political topics. Sometimes feelings and emotions overwhelm us so much that we are unable to communicate with each other. Here are some tips to keep in mind when conversing with your loved ones during these upcoming holidays.
Active Listening:
When engaging with family and friends, it is essential to actively listen to one another to promote trust in your communication. Within these conversations, you want to create a space where you are listening to understand, rather than simply responding. You are showing your loved ones that you are hearing them and seeing their perspective, and vice versa. Active listening should be reciprocal in the communication. Engaging in active listening skills involves maintaining eye-contact, removing distractions from the area, and practicing positive body language. If conversations get too overwhelming, try taking a break and revisiting when everyone feels comfortable.
Approach with Curiosity:
Sometimes, conversations can lead to heavy topics, with opposing views at the forefront. Approaching conversations with curiosity can help open dialogue between you and your loved ones. It also offers the opportunity to engage in conversation in a way you may not have before. For example, when hearing someone explain their opinions, offer your interpretation: “What I hear you saying is…”. This allows everyone to deepen their understanding and ensure everyone is being heard.
Be Clear with Your Boundaries:
To promote respect, it is crucial to set and hold your boundaries. Similarly, it is essential to listen to and respect others’ boundaries. Often, unspoken boundaries are inadvertently crossed in conversation. It is crucial to self-advocate for your emotional well-being so others can learn to respect it. Advocating for your boundaries can sound like an “I” statement. For example, “I appreciate your words, and I still need time to process what I want to say in response”.
Hopefully these tips are helpful to remember when you engage in difficult conversations throughout the holidays. To engage in healthy, productive conversation respect everyone’s boundaries and use the above healthy communication techniques. If you or someone you know is looking for support with working on these skills, we encourage you to get in touch with Gracie or anyone else on our team to begin the therapeutic process!
