Rigged conversations and salty water



Hey Reader,

I was overwhelmed by your response to my new workbook. Thank you for all the kind words, selfies, and even the live-time notifications when your book was delivered! I worked hard to create this resource, and I've been looking forward to sharing it with you. Your excitement makes it all worth it.

This week I've got another round of 3 things for you: an inbox question, a communication tip and something I’m currently loving. Let’s go.

#1. From my inbox: "How do I apply your tips in a situation where 'winning' the argument is impossible and 'connection' is not a desired outcome for them?"

The goal here is to shift control. Use flat statements that can’t be twisted, like: “Noted.” “Understood.” Keep your responses short and in a neutral tone. Make minimal eye contact and give no explanations. Silence can’t be misquoted.

Define your scope up front and repeat it when they drift: “I’m not here to change your mind. I’m here to state my position once.” Then do it, once.

If they get disrespectful, name the behavior and leave: “This isn’t respectful. I’m done talking for today.” Calm, then gone. The power move here isn’t persuasion. It’s non‑participation in a rigged game.

#2. How to Remember What to Say In the Moment

Get rid of the urge to say something back right away. Take ten seconds. Take a whole minute. Take a whole day. The conversation cannot happen any faster than you can respond. Try this: memorize some go-to phrases. Some of mine are “give me a second” or “I’m thinking”. As long as the other person doesn’t feel like you’re ignoring them, but you’re choosing your words carefully, they’ll usually give you the space.

#3. Something I’m currently loving - LMNT

My family has been traveling a lot lately. One thing I’ve learned is this: If you want the trip to go better, keep everybody hydrated. When my kids are dehydrated, they get cranky, forgetful, and restless. And, truthfully, so do I. That’s why we’ve been adding LMNT to our water bottles. It’s easy to keep up with on the go, and even my kids love it! They call it "Salty Water". :) Our favorite flavors are lemonade, watermelon, and pineapple. If you want to try it, my friends at LMNT are throwing in a free sample pack with your order. Grab yours here.

Thanks for being here,

J

P.S. What's 1 thing you're loving right now? It could be a favorite song, a new recipe, or a product that's making your life easier. Reply back and share it with me. I'd love to hear.


*Sponsorship Transparency: I only recommend products we use and trust. If I wouldn’t put it in my own home, I won’t put it in yours. Simple as that.

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156 S. Main Street Ste 300 #769, Lumberton, TX 77657

Jefferson Fisher

Simple, practical communication advice for your next conversation.

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