In the last week, my yoga teacher, my dermatologist, my friends have been talking politics.
I’m adept at switching topics, since I know our politics are different and nothing good can come of this.
But what happens if politics rears its head between the turkey serving and the mince pie?
Time Magazine publishes some great scripts designed for use with family, friends this holiday.
If you are genuinely curious.
“Can you tell me a story that helps me understand how you came to believe that?”
Why this works:
Getting curious about the personal experiences that shaped your favorite uncle’s perspective on x, gives context. It may come from a place we recognize, even if we don’t also subscribe to their ideas.
“Tell me more.”
Why this works:
If you can convince someone you really want to hear their perspective, they tend to shift from ranting into talking. It quickly lowers the temperature in the room.
If the conversation is going out of control
“Could I have permission to share my point of view?”
Why this works:
It’s OK to have different politics—but could you ask permission? This lowers the temperature in the room.
“Maybe we could revisit this conversation when we're both feeling more calm.”
Why this works:
You make sure nobody says something you’ll regret later.
If you want to set boundaries ahead of time
Set ground rules before getting together. Send it in an email.
“We want to make this a politics free zone and make it about getting together/kids.”
Remember, the holidays are a time for joy and self-care. Respecting your own boundaries is a gift to yourself.
What are some ways you plan to protect your time and energy this holiday season? Share in the comments below!
All of my anatomy of a good 'no' scenarios and scripts live here.
Whenever you’re ready, there are 3 ways I can help you:
1.Join the Samita Lab Mastermind. Join 7 other women leaders in giving a TEDx style talk on a NYC stage in front of 200 people at the end.
I only enroll for this program once a year.
The waitlist is open for the Class of 2025.
or think outside the box and play this video game
2. The Anatomy of a 'No' If you’re struggling to say ‘no’ gracefully at work, I created a digital community where all my scripts are organized (15,000 downloaded)
I’ll add to it each week.
3. Enroll in my workshop: “3 tips to supercharge your TEDx Application”
1600 already took it.
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