Pain free, stress free, RELIEF: An infomercial for stress free conversations

Identify. Prepare. Practise: these are 3 ways to prepare for (or even avoid) stressful conversations, according to Chapter 10 of HBR's 10 Must Reads. 
This reminds me of DEAR MAN, a classic DBT conflict resolution and communication technique that has a little bit more finesseeee. DEAR MAN stands for: Define, Express, Assert, Reinforce, Mindful, Assertive, Negotiate. In layman's terms, DEAR MAN is a communication strategy that promotes expressing your objectives and feelings, while also preserving the feelings and objectives of others. 
This frame work is helpful because it helps all types of communicators. When faced with stressful conversations, some people crumble under perceived conflict and let the other persons emotional response manage the outcome of the conversation. Some people are overly aggressive and let their emotions and objective control the narrative of the conversation. Both ends of the communication spectrum have their own communication issues, but DEAR MAN is a great strategy that covers many bases, including some of the points that the chapter lacks. This is thanks to my therapist and my DBT (Dialectical Behavioural Therapy) Workbook- these skills will never die. 

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