For years, I failed the circle of hell test without even knowing it existed. I’d see someone hovering at the edge of a conversation, clearly wanting to join, and I’d do nothing. I’d continue talking, pretending not to notice their awkward half-smile and shifting weight. I told myself pulling strangers into our group chat wasn’t… Mehr lesen "Der Höllenkreis-Test
We’ve all been there. The knot in your stomach as you wait for a meeting you know will be unpleasant. The racing heart and sweaty palms as you try to find the right words. The sinking feeling as a conversation goes off the rails despite your best efforts. Difficult conversations are unavoidable, but for most… Mehr lesen "How to do difficult conversations
You know that sinking feeling when a conversation with your partner veers into the “You always…” zone? Maybe you’re dishing those statements out yourself, watching your loved one’s face fall with each accusation. I’ve been on both sides of that interaction. And let me tell you, it never ends well. I certainly made my share… Mehr lesen "Use “I feel” statements for better relationships
For most of my life, I thought arguing was about proving I was right. I’d latch onto my viewpoint with a death grip, using every rhetorical trick to defend it. Evidence that contradicted my stance? Brushed aside. Holes in my logic? Hastily patched. The other person’s perspective? Dismissed with a wave. I argued to win,… Mehr lesen "How to argue using the RISA framework
Truly listening to others has become a rare and valuable skill. Many of us fall into the trap of letting our minds wander during conversations, missing out on important information and failing to make genuine connections. By learning to listen actively and intentionally, we can transform our relationships and become more effective communicators. The key… Mehr lesen "The Assist-to-Steal ratio in conversations
Emotionale Intelligenz ist die geheime Soße, die es uns ermöglicht, mit komplexen Emotionen umzugehen, sinnvolle Beziehungen aufzubauen und persönlich und beruflich erfolgreich zu sein. Während manche glauben, dass emotionale Intelligenz eine angeborene Gabe ist, kann sie in Wahrheit durch die Macht der Sprache kultiviert und gestärkt werden. Wenn sie konsequent und authentisch eingesetzt wird, können bestimmte... Mehr lesen "8 Sätze, die Empathie zeigen und deine Beziehungen stärken
A simple yet powerful framework can help us navigate conversations with greater skill and care. By applying the 4-Way Test to our interactions, we can cultivate more meaningful connections, build trust, and achieve better outcomes in both personal and professional spheres. The 4-Way Test, originally developed by Herbert J. Taylor to guide ethical decision-making in… Mehr lesen "The 4-way test for better communication
One simple technique in public speaking can significantly impact your ability to captivate and engage your audience: the purposeful pause. By strategically incorporating well-timed moments of silence into your speech, you can eliminate the overuse of filler words like “um,” “ah,” and “you know,” which often creep into our language when we’re feeling nervous or… Mehr lesen "How to get rid of your um’s and ah’s
Conversational receptiveness is a communication approach that involves using specific words, phrases, and techniques to demonstrate engagement with and understanding of the other person’s perspective during a conversation, particularly in situations of disagreement or conflict. It aims to create a more open, respectful, and productive dialogue by focusing on listening, acknowledging the other person’s viewpoint,… Mehr lesen "The HEAR technique for better communication and solving conflicts
When someone shares their problems or struggles with you, offering advice or solutions is tempting. However, sometimes, they need simple affirmation—a recognition and validation of their experiences and emotions. Using the affirmation hack, you can create a supportive environment that allows the person to feel heard and understood. Imagine your friend confides in you about… Mehr lesen "Affirmation: Validating Experiences and Strengthening Connections
