Better Conversations - Wrap Up

Wrap Up
Over the past seven weeks we have examined the six beliefs that help us have better conversations.  The six beliefs come from Jim Knights book Better Conversations.   If you strive to have better conversations with people, I highly suggest this book.  Jim Knight is a "guru" in instructional coaching.  This is what compelled me to read this book, and it not only has had an impact on how I have conversations with the teachers and administrators I work with, but also with my wife and daughters.  I highly recommend this book.

6 Beliefs to Better Conversations

1. I see others as equal partners in conversations.
2. I want to hear what others have to say.
3. I believe people should have a lot of autonomy.
4. I don't judge my conversation partners.
5. Conversation should be back and forth.
6. Conversation should be life-giving.

Reflection

As I read the book and had the opportunity to reflect using the Better Conversations Companion Book, I have realized that I do not know what it looks like when I do something.  If I truly want to have a better conversation, I need to know what it looks like when I do what I do.  With that being said, I plan to record some of the conversations I have with people and reflect back on our conversation to see if I truly am acting out what I believe to be true.  Beliefs really do drive our behavior, and if I really believe that we are equals in conversation, I want to hear what you have to say, I give people autonomy, I don't judge, our conversation is back and forth and life giving, then my behavior should follow suit.

My hope is that through these past seven weeks, you have had the opportunity to reflect on your own conversation habits and beliefs.  At the very least, I hope you had the chance to think a little deeper about the importance of conversation.