STATE MY PATH

If Carole’s goal is to have a healthy conversation about a tough topic (e.g., I think you’re having an affair), her only hope is to stay in dialogue—at least until she confirms or disconfirms her concerns. That holds true for anybody with any crucial conversation (i.e., It feels like you micromanage me; I fear you’re using drugs). That means that despite your worst suspicions, you shouldn’t violate respect. In a similar vein, you shouldn’t kill safety with threats and accusations.

So what should you do? Start with Heart. Think about what you really want and how dialogue can help you get it. And master your story—realize that you may be jumping to a hasty Victim, Villain, or Helpless Story. The best way to find out the true story ...

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