Communicating Your Beliefs Without Confrontation
Through my many instances of teaching, public speaking, therapizing, and coaching; communicating beliefs with others can be sticky and downright confrontational at times. I’ve witnessed it and I’ve had to say more than once “hold the phone people”.
What is a belief system and why do people get caught in difficult situations trying to communicate those to others? Belief systems and core values are your makeup and how you live your life. Those “things” are your code, your crest that says this is who I am. Additionally, there are millions of people in the world with their own special code too.
How can we effectively communicate with others who hold different beliefs and values without confrontation? As I was writing this blog post I came across the article below. The points are great and really… this is about assertive communication and recognizing that differences of opinions and beliefs are ok. I think another take away from the article in my own words… “I’m not everybody’s cup of coffee and I am ok with that.”
Here are my highlights from the article:
- Know and prioritize your fundamental beliefs- why are those important to you?
- Choose your battles!
- If you want to be a change agent, you have to overcome fear and stand firm. This doesn’t mean being a bully. This means assertiveness from a place of authenticity rather than your ego. (Big Difference)
- Remain objective and don’t get caught up in the subjective. Use your emotional intelligence! Remain curious as to why that person believes the way they do and ask questions. This can be about relationship building rather than tearing down.
- It’s ok to agree to disagree and let it go. I’m not always going to agree with someone and vice versa. I have choice. I have the ability too critically think about how I may want to act or react. Again, I don’t have to bulldoze my beliefs on someone and vice versa. I can recognize that it’s ok to step away and that this is a battle I choose not to fight.
My favorite quote from the article: “Every saint has a past, and every sinner has a future.” Oscar Wilde
Reflect on that quote… I dare ya!
Namaste
Live Long and Prosper
#littlebuddhakitty
Here’s the link to the article. Let me know your thoughts if you’d like.
How to Stand Up for Your Beliefs Without Confrontation. Adam Brady
