Wendy Yaniv, ACC

Feeling these emotions is what makes us human. Emotions are neither bad nor good but it's our actions, based on these emotions, that can be positive or negative. These feelings are a sign that something is not working. If we view this with curiosity and interest and "appreciate" the warning we can then make a choice as to how to respond. Awareness offers us the opportunity to begin to take back the reigns and make better choices when we respond.

So often boundaries are viewed negatively when, in fact, they offer us some of the greatest opportunities for authentic communication and relationship building.

A powerful technique (from Positive Intelligence), which opens the mind and allows one to practice active listening is something called rhe “yes, and” game. An idea is put forward and each person in the brainstorming session must point out the 10% of the idea that resonates with them. The feedback is non-judgmental and also requires the listener to build on the previous idea. “What I like about that idea is ______ and what that brings to mind is ________.” The idea has grown. The next person follows the same cue as it continues. Everyone gets involved, everyone builds upon the other and we all learn how to open our minds to other thoughts and visions different than ours!