Creating Respectful and Astute Exchanges
This article was originally published FEBRUARY 2015, in the WorldWide Coaching Magazine.
By Lyn Christian MCC, CFCC, CCMBIT COACH
An exchange between one or more individuals can be classified as communication, even when the exchange is non-verbal. Exchanges (a calming touch, a silent flash of eye contact, body language with emotional undertones or verbal direction) are in fact the basis for all human communication. Unfortunately, most cultures, schools and families don’t teach how to have functional or productive exchanges.
Instead, much of what we learn is figured out on the fly. So how does one become proficient in communication that fosters growth, clarity and equitable conflict resolution? Thus began my quest to find methods and tools that support respectful and effective exchanges between others and myself.
The search for these elusive tools led to the work of Dr. Bryn Collins. An expert communicator in her own right—Collins holds degrees in education, counseling psychology, an M.B.A. in labor relationships and a Ph.D. in comparative religions.
Her work has influenced how I move through the world and increased self-efficacy in terms of communication. It has even increased confidence for holding my own in difficult interpersonal and professional conversations while respectfully holding others responsible to do the same.
The downloadable handout and podcast provided below were designed for seekers and generative beings on a quest for environments where creative ideas,
Step One: Download the SoulSalt worksheet designed around Collins’ five positions within her Emotional Location model. (Downloadable Emotional Unavailability Worksheet)
Step Two: Listen to the interview below between Lyn and Dr. Collins as she walks us through getting to the “power middle” and improving our communication style and outcomes.
Suggested Resources
Emotional Unavailability by Bryn Collins on Amazon here.
What We Say Matters by Judith Lasater on Amazon here.
Find out more about Bryn Collins on her website here.
