Approach the Conversation as a Craft

Having a conversation with someone can be a miracle.  Two people exchange any thought or feeling with each other.  You have an important impact on each other.  A conversation is limitless in its possibilities because as we convey our greatest successes, failures, dreams and nightmares. Conversation raises the spirit and saves our lives. Conversation is an underappreciated craft that we can all practice.  Unlike many other crafts which require long apprenticeships or lengthy education, conversation is constantly available to practice, though generally it is done poorly.

When conversations go badly, you get the opposite feeling. You abhor seeing the other person. Their voice triggers a “scratching the blackboard” reaction. Words sting and stick.  Talking to the other person is the last thing on your mind. A skilled conversationalist views this as an opportunity to practice her craft. An amateur shuts down or takes little care in the words spoken.

A conversation is your chance to make a difference for yourself, for the other person and for the relationship.  Approaching conversation like an artisan approaches his craft; you will reap the benefits of choosing your words with precision, modulating your voice with care and treating the other person and the topic with respect. Even the most difficult situation is a chance to be your full self, walking into the conversation with optimism, hope and courage. Conversation is a potent tool to break down the walls between people.