TOPIC
377 practical questions
Your words shape how others, including children, communicate. Negative interactions can lead to negative outcomes, while positive ones can create a positive cycle. Be mindful of your communication, as it directly impacts how others treat their own children.
Jefferson Fisher is traveling to Australia and New Zealand for a tour and is asking for prayer support for safe travel. They are sharing their journey and experiences with their family.
Phone use during conversations weakens emotional bonds by reducing undivided attention, signaling disinterest, and diminishing the quality of connection.
When someone gives unsolicited feedback, a simple 'thank you' is sufficient. This acknowledges their input without engaging in a debate. If the advice is valuable, express appreciation, but avoid defending your approach. Focus on your own priorities and consider the value of the person's input. If the feedback is unhelpful, a brief thank, you is enough to maintain respect without giving them undue influence.
Believe people who tell the truth, as the truth doesn't need to hide. Liars try to make you act quickly, but delay makes them uncomfortable.
Use phrases like 'I need some space' to signal a pause without ending the conversation. This helps reduce tension and allows both parties to reflect before continuing the discussion.
Ask questions instead of making accusations. When someone says their rudeness is their personality, ask if it's a choice or a personality trait. This forces them to reflect on their behavior and often leads them to reconsider their actions.
Treat repeated conversations like repetitions in gymnastics. Recognize each conversation as a 'rep' to learn and improve. Commit to the conversation over time to see progress.
Use silence to catch a liar. Liars can't handle silence because it shows you're not taking the bait. They prefer fast talking and emotional reactions. Truth-tellers are more confident and don't need excuses.
Use 'I see things differently', 'that doesn't align with what I know', and 'I'm surprised by that' to disagree without escalating conflict.
Ask open-ended questions like 'What's coming up for you?' to encourage passive aggressive people to express their true feelings without defensiveness. Focus on understanding their underlying needs rather than confronting them directly.
Putting your phone away during conversations shows the person is more important, improving connection. Keeping it visible creates mixed priorities and reduces engagement.