Peace Treatments

Almost 2 years ago, when I announced I was leaving my previous career of 25 some odd years to launch my own conflict resolution practice, the cheers and congratulatory salutations were numerous and loud.  I was told I was courageous, had a sure thing, and would be a resounding success. Can't  count how many people told me they wished they could also leave their careers to pursue some dream...if only they were as certain about what that dream was, as I was.  It was all heady stuff. Fast forward to today...having blown through the savings that was to cushion the transition, and having completed only a few trainings, arbitrations, workshops and seminars, I am going back to fulltime work in the industry that I'd left.  The congratulations are sounding not so nearly as exuberant as for when I quit...at least not through the lens of what feels like a humbled and contrite heart. But gee, did I learn a lot! First, when you have a dream, go for it. That's the point. Not nece

How often do you think about the words you use - not only those words that become defaults when in conflict, but also those words used in every day conversation?  I've been thinking a lot about words lately. It amazes me how the simple turn of a phrase can lead from impasse to insight, and from resistance to buy in. Most people agree words are important; conflict practitioners understand the value in neutral words, coaches understand the impact words have on perspective and faith healers will argue that your words create your reality. There are indeed words that hold the ability to influence and motivate others and when pondering why they are effective, it occurs to me that motivating words don't hold judgement, and therefore, people remain open to the  sense of possibilities these words generate. Here's a comparative example.... "Attend this workshop.  It will make you a better ___________" versus "People who have taken this workshop report th