How to Have a Hard Conversation with Those You Love

In this week’s episode, Quinn teaches listeners 8 Steps to Follow when having a hard conversation. In it, Quinn shares how a friend called her about a family conflict and said these words, “Now before I tell you my side of the story, I reserve the right to be wrong. And I could not know what I’m talking about” which led Quinn to feel like this was a powerful topic to address before the holidays.

In the episode, Quin teaches listeners: 

What to say when reaching out for a hard conversation 

4 Family Communication Patterns 

8 Steps to Follow for Hard Conversations 

Specifically, Quinn gives tips that will help the listener understand: 

Reach out to them: I want peace.

Know that you can be wrong. 

Define a goal. Agree on terms before you sit down 

Set a time limit. 

Acknowledge your responsibility in the situation and conflict. 

Listen and validate. 

Share your side – “This is my experience. These are my feelings.” 

Restate desired outcome.

Mind Renewal Tips

Always remember, “There is your side – my side – and the truth.” 

Scripture Renewal:

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Resources:

study.com Family Communication Patterns Overview Theory Styles