Curiosity
Developing a sense of wonder, even if you know what they’re going to say!

Responsive
As opposed to being reactive. Focusing on and getting in touch with other people’s ‘maps’, moods and meanings. Respecting the validity and logic of the other person’s reasons and rationality, even if what they’re saying won’t hold up under scrutiny.

Assertive
As opposed to being aggressive, which is often what happens when we are reactive.

Focused
What we focus on grows. Focus first on your own state of mind and then your separate and mutual outcomes – ideally, well formed!

Thoughtful
Thinking clearly enough to manage yourself and your relationships, so that you can facilitate others to function more intelligently.

Yes!
Fuelled by the notion of Intelligent Optimism, this is a set of attitudes and actions that are based, in practice and in principle, on the assumption (fantasy, if you like) that we are ‘in it’ together. This stems from a basic, motivating belief that we can solve problems and resolve conflicts, together.

Intelligent Optimism is reinforced by choosing to co-create what happens in the space that grows between us; a space that contains a lot more promise and potential than many people allow themselves to believe!

 Crafty Listening is a conscious act based on certain assumptions and beliefs about Self, Others and mutual potential. It assumes that the relationship is life-enhancing.

 At the very least, crafty listening can minimise interactions that demean and diminish the people involved.