Have you had a conversation about climate change with someone that didn’t really work? Instead of leading with the facts and figures, take a moment to connect with the person. Listen to their story to gain an understanding of the views they hold.
That understanding will help to build a connection. It is through connection and community that we can begin to rethink our views, supported by facts and science.
Dr. William Doherty, a family and marriage therapist, co-founded the nonprofit Braver Angels after the 2016 US election. This organization runs workshops that aim to bring people together who have different political views, and encourage them to share their beliefs in an open and safe way. The goal is to look for commonalities, express opinions in a constructive way and practice actively listening to the other person in an effort to understand their perspective.
Below are some of his suggestions for having effective conversations with people who have different views from us.
- Seek to understand how the other person views the world. Listen more to what they are saying as opposed to continually trying to explain your point of view.
- Stop trying to change the other person, as this often won’t work and it will only lead to both parties feeling frustrated. We can only change ourselves.
- Use “I” statements to explain your views and opinions instead of targeting the other person. For example, “This is how I see it” instead of “How can you not see this”.
- Use the LAPP technique: Listen to understand, not prepare your counterpoint, acknowledge what you heard, pivot by assessing the situation and determining if it is ok to offer your views, and offer your perspective if the other person is receptive to it.
With nicer weather and long weekends this summer offering good opportunities to connect with friends and family, keep in mind the above tips so you can engage in respectful conversations instead of avoiding them. After all, talking about climate change is a significant way to make a difference.