NCD Mantras Help Support Healthy Political Discussions
No matter where you sit politically, it can be a challenge to have open, heartfelt discussions while still maintaining connection and trust.
The NCD Mantras serve as anchors while you engage in dialogue with those who you might not agree with. These represent the principles of Navigating Challenging Dialogue®.
Be Aware of the Energy You Bring to The Room
When having high stakes conversations, such as about voting, we can feel like something we value is being threatened. If you are already feeling stressed, anxious, or worried, it is not a good time for political dialogue.
Try and breathe deeply and ground your feet on floor prior to having a political discussion.
Curiosity is the Pathway to Empathy
Often we all want similar things from our elected officials, but believe in different pathways to achieving those things. In conversation, be sure to ground yourself, then sink into curiosity. Don’t ask about the candidate they support but instead be curious about what they value. Find where you have common ground. Curiosity is not about “winning”, but about seeking understanding and learning.
The Only Person I Can Manage is Myself
If you find yourself in a political debate (particularly a non-productive one), remember that you can’t manage the other person — nor should you try. But you can model the behavior that aligns with your values and beliefs. Be who you want to see more of in the world. And, if you feel threatened or emotionally unsafe, excuse yourself. You don’t have to engage with everyone.
That’s Fascinating
You don’t have to change the hearts and minds of others. You can simply say, “That’s a fascinating perspective. Thanks for sharing with me.” And then move on.
Trust is Built One Conversation at a Time and One Experience at a Time
The more you engage with someone, learn about them, and share experiences with them, the more trust will be built between you. When trust exists, people are more comfortable being a little vulnerable and even exploring new perspectives and ideas. Be gentle and build relationships slowly. Also, be certain to let go of relationships that are dangerous or harmful to you.
At the End of the Day, Everyone Just Needs to be Seen and Heard
When speaking with people who are fearful, it’s often enough to use phrases like, “I hear you. That sounds uncomfortable.” You don’t have to get them to place blame or change their mind. Just let them know they’ve been heard.
Election years are hard. The stakes are high. People are on edge. The discourse has become louder and more unkind. And sometimes I feel like I can be caught up in all of it.
But we must remember that we are all working toward a common goal and a greater good. After the election our neighbors, our circle of acquaintances, and our family members will still be in our lives whether we agreed or not.
Grace is in the Space
Not every comment needs a response. Not every argument that finds its way to you requires your engagement. Self-care is essential at this time. As long as you are increasing the good in the world through your thoughts and actions, you are doing your part.
Give yourself grace as you journey through this election cycle.
Navigating Challenging Dialogue® is a tool for having tough conversations while maintaining connection. Connection is essential for our existence and sustainability as a species.
So let’s do our best to model the behaviors we desire in others and build healthy bridges when it is wise and safe to do so.
P.S. If you want more examples, and a step-by-step guide, on how to have positive, productive conversations —even when you may not agree — check out my book, Turn This Conversation Around: The 4-Stage Process for Communication with Connection.
My process has helped hundreds of individuals and organizations to clearly communicate in ways that create connections, build bridges, and get results.