This time of year — for many of us — offers a chance to pause, express gratitude, and prioritize relationships.
Yet, as with the "both/and" that life offers — more time with extended family and friends also brings anxiety and worry. In the US, we've had a month filled with political division and divisive rhetoric, all of which are accompanied by rather intense emotions.
In these moments, despite the excitement of having space to spend time with loved ones, family time becomes more complicated, especially when differing perspectives or sensitive topics arise.
While certainly challenging, this is a time to practice and prioritize intentionality. A key leadership behavior — something I'd call a critical "human skill" — that we're often in the position to help our clients develop.
[And oh yes, if you're wondering what it's like to have a psychologist at your dinner table, I can promise you it's a nonstop joy 😉]
What does intentionality around the dinner table entail?
It looks like taking a pause to consider what you're reacting to before you respond.
It looks like leaning into curiosity, asking open-ended questions instead of leading with 'comebacks', and actively determining what battles are worth your energy.
It looks like controlling the controllable. Remember you can't control people's reactions, words, or beliefs, but you can control your own. And if you're intentional with your engagement, you might find you're influential with your words too. Win-win.
Is this type of intentionality easy? Certainly not.
Does it require more energy and focus? Absolutely.
Is it worth it? Yes.
Whether you’re navigating a difficult discussion around the dinner table or managing conflict within an Executive team, how you show up in these conversations matters.
Read on for more guidance on how to approach these difficult conversations.
Hope you, too, get time to slow down, pause, and reflect this season,
Stefanie
