Hey Reader, You can’t control other people. That’s true at home, work, social gatherings, and even at sporting events. Your only leverage is in your own words. Sierra and I have this conversation with our kids a lot: You don’t get to choose what someone else says or does. You only get to choose what you do next. That’s what this week’s tips are about. Let’s jump in. #1. From My Inbox: “How do I kindly respond to a micro-corrector who acts like a know-it-all?” Take a breath before you answer....

Hey Reader, I love checking my email. (I know how that sounds. I stand by it.) But hearing from you is my favorite part. This week Nathaniel sent me a note that said, "A lot of communication advice out there focuses on handling what's already broken. You seem to be interested in helping us with the moment tension first appears, before the conversation goes off the rails, so we can change what happens next." Nathaniel, you're right. The first few seconds of a difficult conversation determine...

Hey Reader, Manipulation works when someone convinces you that their reaction is your responsibility. They get upset, apply pressure, or make you feel guilty and suddenly, you’re changing your decision to make their reaction stop. In today’s episode, I'm teaching you how to spot manipulation and what to do when someone tries to use their reaction to control your decision. You'll learn: The common patterns manipulators use to gain leverage over you Why slowing down is one of the best ways to...