Ten phrases to navigate disagreements better.
Some people lack communication skills, some lack courage. I lacked both. Inside are ten phrases you can literally apply, immediately.
By Dean LeakKeynote speaker & performance coach · 146K+ followers
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I was a professional side-stepper.
- 01
“Tell me more…”
Understand what’s behind someone’s view before you respond, and give yourself a moment to think.
- 02
The labelling technique
Acknowledge what the other person seems to be feeling, without assuming you’ve got it right.
- 03
The de-escalation phrase
Help someone feel heard so there’s room to actually discuss the disagreement.
- 04
The repair statement
What to say when you’ve become defensive, or your words have landed badly.
- 05
The “third space” phrase
Find a starting point you can both work from when the conversation feels stuck.
- +
Audit your silence
Identify a conversation you’ve been avoiding, and what leaving it unsaid is costing you.
“Tell me more about what’s led you to that view.”
When someone says something you disagree with, rather than proving them wrong or avoiding the topic, say “tell me more”. It makes them feel seen and heard, and lowers their defences.
Yes, these are proven power phrases. But they’re really a mindset shift, so you can show up with confidence and courage.
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