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🎙️ Navigating Difficult Conversations: Setting Boundaries with Empathy 🎙️

In our latest podcast episode, Lucie and Chris dove deep into a scenario many of us can relate to – setting boundaries with a friend who tends to guilt-trip. 🛑

Boundaries are essential for maintaining healthy relationships, yet many struggle to assert them without feeling guilty or aggressive. Here's a quick recap of our role-play and the key takeaways:

🔍 Scenario: Chris had to cancel plans with Lucie, a friend of 30 years, due to unforeseen family circumstances. Lucie felt hurt and expressed this in a confrontational manner.

🙌 What Worked:

• Empathy and Validation: Acknowledging the other person's feelings can significantly reduce conflict.
• Alternative Solutions: Offering a different plan shows commitment to the relationship despite setbacks.
• Focusing on Personal Impact: Sharing how actions affect you personally helps maintain a respectful conversation.

❗ What to Avoid:

• Defensiveness: It often escalates the situation and prevents resolution.
• Assumptions: Assuming the other person’s intentions can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings.

Setting boundaries doesn’t have to be confrontational – it can be a pathway to deeper understanding and respect.

🔗 Resources: We've created a "Difficult Conversation Checklist" as a part of our "How to prepare effectively for difficult conversations webinar" to help you navigate these tough talks.  

Remember, healthy relationships are built on mutual respect and clear communication. Let's strive to create more of these in our personal and professional lives.

🤝 If you have questions or want to share your experiences, feel free to reach out. We’re here to support your journey towards healthier connections.

#Podcast #PersonalDevelopment #CommunicationSkills #SettingBoundaries #EmpathyInAction #ProfessionalGrowth

Connect with us here: 

Email: tas.difficultconversations@gmail.com

LinkedIn:  
Chris – www.linkedin.com/in/chriswonglmhc
Lucie – www.linkedin.com/in/lucietesarova