Authentic Conversation

Description

Authentic conversation occurs where the participants are being honest about what they think and how they feel.

They are able to talk openly without fear of attack by others and do not feel any need to be defensive or aggressive themselves. This includes being able to talk about their own fears and shortcomings.

Discussion

The reality of human society is that in many conversations we feel unable to be wholly truthful. This is often because we fear that to do so would invite criticism or otherwise let others take advantage of us. To cope with this we wear virtual masks, hiding our real selves and avoiding embarrassment as we project what we hope is a respected, impressive image.

The problem with this is that it leaves many things left unsaid, which can lead to misunderstanding, confusion and conflict. It also causes inner tension as we feel alienated from our true selves.

Talking authentically is speaking as an adult to another adult, rather than playing parent-child games. It assumes there will be no status-oriented I'm-better-than-you games. It is a conversation of mature equals who are comfortable with who they are, with little need for approval or admiration.

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Authentic Conversation

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Quick links

Disciplines

Techniques

Principles

Explanations

Theories

And