Three Crucial Takeaways on Meaningful Conversation

By KC Royster

Remaining calm and firm during nervous conversations can seem unachievable. Well, good news: Lili Powell talked through the steps of the three lessons to keep yourself mindful during the conversation. It is essential to regulate your emotional state before starting the conversation and bringing yourself into the present. First, take a deep breath, exhale gently, and breathe in curiosity. Second, either stand or sit your feet hip distance apart. Then, sit up straight and elongate your spine. Ease your shoulders and maintain facing forward with a relaxed gaze. During a conversation, control your energy and attention by using your breath. It helps to focus throughout a conversation.

“Having shifted and re-collected yourself, you are better equipped to redirect your attention away from a stress response and your narrowing focus toward a more generous interpretation of what is happening.”

Third, when the tension rises, try to adopt a generous interpretation. Observe any physical or emotional “pinch” that occurs. Resume to your relaxed posture and breathe in deeply a couple of times. Be sure to visualize a circle encircling you and the other person, representing your shared sacred story. Show compassion for yourself and the other person by starting with small talk before moving on to more significant conversations.  You can work on these lessons on yourself or in real-life situations that move from low-stakes to high-stakes dialogues. Once you regularly practice these, you can have conservation with a relaxed presence. Remember to arrive fully, breathe in curiosity, and connect with generous interpretation