Session 6 - Video recording
Here is the video recording for session 6, including a written summary of the discussion:
Meeting summary
Quick recap
The group discussed challenges of balancing personal and group commitments, including attendance issues due to Thanksgiving week, and explored communication strategies through various frameworks and techniques. They examined concepts like the ABCD framework, emotional intelligence, and effective conversation approaches, including strategies for managing stress and avoiding assumptions. The session concluded with plans for future discussions covering specific book chapters and gathering participant feedback on the program's effectiveness.
Next steps
Catherine: post last week's call content that she forgot to post
All participants: review the 11 tools in the book appendices before next meeting
Summary
Balancing Commitments and Feedback Plans
Catherine discussed the challenges of balancing personal and group commitments, noting that some participants were absent due to Thanksgiving week. She mentioned plans to send a feedback form to evaluate the format and content of the group discussions. William shared his experience of adjusting to his partner's presence in the kitchen, realizing that her actions might stem from a desire to spend time together rather than a need for perfection. The group also discussed various leadership and emotional intelligence books that could be used for future study.
ABCD Framework for Stress-Free Conversations
The group discussed the ABCD framework (Aware, Breathe, Curiosity, Decide) and its application in conversations, emphasizing the importance of breathing techniques to manage stress and avoid assumptions. They explored the concept of "assumicide" or "death by assumption" and discussed how to approach conversations with an attitude of heart, focusing on being loving, supportive, and curious. The group also reviewed Ben's three questions for preparing conversations, which include examining assumptions, seeking alternative explanations, and considering the broader context of the other person's situation.
Enhancing Communication Strategies
Catherine led a discussion on effective communication strategies, focusing on preparing for important conversations by questioning assumptions, understanding the other person's perspective, and identifying one's own triggers. She emphasized the importance of pre-planning conversations, using a structured approach to address major issues rather than trivial matters. The group discussed the value of journaling and breakout room exercises to practice these strategies. Catherine announced that the next session would cover chapters 12-14 of the book and chapter 6 of the workbook, and she planned to gather feedback from participants on the program's effectiveness and potential future topics.