Talking about your problems can be intimidating and nerve-wracking. Mastering challenging conversations takes practice. Once you learn to communicate with confidence, these situations will be much less stressful. It is comforting to know that even in demanding situations you are capable of speaking your thoughts and ideas in a calm collected manner.
Dealing with Difficult People
When you are a people person, you’re going to often come across difficult people. These are for instance people who won’t yield for any reason. They are unreasonable and will likely complain about everything. How can you deal with these people?
Some people become apathetic in their situations. Ask questions of this person. Find out what it is that is causing them not to care anymore.
For others who simply have a bad attitude, you have to handle this situation more delicately. The one thing you don’t want to do is give in to them so readily. Sometimes, people will give in because the other individuals talk the loudest. You should only let them have their way if the solution is the correct one, not just because they are talking loudly.
One of the main solutions in dealing with difficult people is to have alternative solutions. For instance, if someone complains that a particular solution won’t work, first ask why. If they come up with a valid reason, then offer alternatives. If they continue to shoot down every suggestion you produce, ask them to come up with a solution.
Managing Emotions
Emotions can run high during difficult conversations, so it's important to manage them effectively. Practicing mindfulness techniques like deep breathing and grounding exercises can help you stay calm. If emotions get too intense, it's okay to take a short break to cool down before continuing the discussion. While it's important to express emotions, it's equally important to do so respectfully. Avoiding blame, criticism, and belittlement can help prevent the conversation from escalating into conflict.
Listen To Everyone In The Conversation
Tough conversations don't have to be one-sided. Sharing with others also involves listening. Be a good listener and be open to the opinions and ideas of the person you're speaking to. Depending on the emotional level of the conversation, this can be difficult. Exercise control and restraint and listen carefully to the person who is speaking. This will improve your communication. Even though you may not like what you are hearing, you often learn new things by listening to others. This may also help to expand your mind to be more accepting of new thoughts.
Find Common Ground
Focus on finding common ground and working toward mutually beneficial solutions. This includes being willing to compromise and consider the other person's needs along with your own. It's important to approach conversations with a problem-solving mindset, rather than a win-lose focus. Brainstorming solutions together and agreeing on actionable steps will produce more effective results and strengthen your relationship.
Follow-up and Reflect
In certain circumstances, it can be beneficial to reflect on what was discussed and what agreements were made. Calling each other back after some time has passed will ensure that both parties remain on the same page and that the solution is being implemented effectively. This follow-up reinforces your commitment to the solution and demonstrates continued care and interest in the relationship.
In any situation, try to remain calm and be polite and respectful. Challenging conversations, when handled correctly and positively, lead to better communication and stronger relationships.
This post is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered therapy. This blog is only for informational and educational purposes and should not be considered therapy or any form of treatment. We are not able to respond to specific questions or comments about personal situations, appropriate diagnosis or treatment, or otherwise provide any clinical opinions. If you think you need immediate assistance, call your local doctor/psychologist or psychiatrist or the SADAG Mental Health Line on 011 234 4837. If necessary, please phone the Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 567 567 or sms 31393.