In the final installment of our blog series on irrational narratives and their impact on conflict resolution, we delve into the “Helpless Participant” narrative and the associated “Powerlessness Paradox.” This narrative often convinces us that we are powerless bystanders in challenging circumstances, leaving us resigned and passive. Continue reading to learn about seven actionable steps you can take to break free from this disempowering mindset, reclaim your agency, and contribute to positive outcomes in your life.

How Irrational Stories Distort Challenging Situations (Part 5: The Helpless Participant Story)

In this third installment of our exploration into irrational narratives and their impact on conflict resolution, we delve into the Villain Story, a counterpart to the Victim Story we explored earlier. These narratives intertwine to shape a dual standard of perception, one that amplifies innocence while simultaneously exaggerating guilt or stupidity. Continue reading to learn how to overcome this narrative and foster a more comprehensive understanding of complex situations.

How Irrational Stories Distort Challenging Situations (Part 3: The Villain Story)

In this post, we explore the world of irrational stories in dealing with challenging situations. Part 1 discussed Fool’s Choice, where leaders limit their options and decision-making by believing they must choose between opposing activities. In Part 2, we delve into the Victim Story, where individuals avoid acknowledging their role in conflicts, hindering constructive solutions. Continue reading to learn how to embrace personal accountability and challenge this destructive internal dialogue to overcome this cognitive trap. Stay tuned for Part 3 to explore another irrational story impacting conflict management.

How Irrational Stories Distort Challenging Situations (Part 2: The Victim Story)

Blindly trusting everything we see and hear can be a recipe for disaster for one simple reason: humans have a way of spinning the narrative to fit their motives – the narrative they tell themselves that aligns with and further reinforces what they…

Humans Have a Way of Spinning the Narrative to Fit Their Motives

A foundational principle upon which you can improve your communication skills is to remember that Psychological Egoism is always at play.

To dig into this principle, let’s begin with two questions…

Psychological Egoism is Always At Play

A Quick Story Our little Abbi Lou wasn’t feeling well a couple of weeks ago, so I took her to the vet. When Dr. Rice entered the room, she asked, “Same thing? Another UTI?””No, I don’t think so,” I replied. “Not this time. I think it is something else.” An Important Backstory To Explain Dr.

Behavioral Baselines and Deviations: Their Role in Emotional Intelligence