On today’s episode of Doing Divorce Different, Lesa Koski is sharing how she helps her clients navigate difficult conversations throughout the divorce process. Throughout her experience as a divorce attorney and mediator, Lesa has learned six impactful steps to help her clients feel heard, feel understood, and to find common ground. Whether you’re experiencing divorce or want to learn how to co-parent, tune in for insight into how Lesa helps her clients move successfully through the divorce process.

In this episode:

[01:45] Listen with the intention of understanding rather than reacting. [03:18] Build rapport and find common ground. [05:15] Invite explanation. [06:35] Invite collaboration. [08:20] Try to understand the other party’s reasoning. [09:09] Four tools that can be helpful when having difficult conversations. [11:25] How to access more tools and resources to do divorce differently. [13:30] Saddle Up Segment.

Key Takeaways:

Collaborative communication is when both parties have the space to share their thoughts and feelings and listen to each other. You can still have rapport with someone, even if they have different opinions than you. It feels good to be heard. If you are trying to persuade someone that is not driven by evidence, ask questions. You can even ask, “What will it take to change your mind?” and then work from there.

Quotes:

“Playing nice works much better than spewing your beliefs at someone.” Lesa Koski

“How do you criticize someone and still play nice? Sometimes you’re going to be critical and not like their idea.” Lesa Koski

“Some people are persuaded by evidence, and some by peer pressure.” Lesa Koski

Resources:

Lesa Koski Website

Lesa Koski Blog

Lesa Koski’s Online Courses