In our journey from conflict to non-conflict, it's crucial to understand the power of effective communication and self-awareness. We often inherit our communication styles from our family systems, and changing these patterns can be challenging. However, embracing assertive communication can transform our relationships and the world around us.
To begin, we can explore resources like Dr. Amanda Hale's blog and interactive tools like this communication style test. These resources help us recognize our communication style and its impact on our interactions.
Effective communication starts with assertiveness. Unfortunately, this skill isn't innate; it's acquired through observation and learning. Often, when we attempt to change communication patterns, we're met with resistance, considering it unnatural, weak, or silly.
"I FEEL" statements play a vital role in diffusing conflicts and taking ownership of our feelings. They shift the focus from blame to understanding, helping us navigate deeper emotions crucial for building stronger relationships.
The key to assertive communication lies in using specific verbiage. Expressing emotions as "When this happens… I feel… because I … what I need is…" helps convey feelings effectively.
It's important to remember that emotions go beyond anger; sharing a variety of feelings like fear, hurt, embarrassment, confusion, or jealousy helps others understand our complex emotional landscape.
The Magic Triangle illustrates how external events lead to interpretations, which trigger thoughts, and subsequently, emotions. By interrupting this cycle, we gain the power to change our thoughts, feelings, and actions.
Ultimately, understanding our emotions and their origins empowers us to make positive changes in our lives. By mastering our thoughts, feelings, and actions, we can pave the way for more harmonious relationships and effective conflict resolution.
It's helpful to embark on a journey of self-discovery, identifying negative patterns developed over time for self-preservation. Do you tend to make excuses, get defensive, attack, control, or blame in conflicts? These patterns often stem from early experiences and can shape our adult interactions.