Day 172

#Offended
Getting offended leads to misunderstandings and often escalates conflict.

Instead of taking offense, ask a question—not with defensiveness, anger, or frustration, but with genuine interest in what might be revealed.

The next time you're on the verge of taking offense, ask one of these questions in the most neutral tone you can muster:

• Shocked by an idea? Ask, "Hmm, where did that come from?"
• Puzzled by feedback? Ask, "How can I improve?"
• Angered by actions? Ask, "What happened?"
• Frustrated by inaction? Ask, "What's your intention?"
• Fed up with incompletions? Ask, "Did we have an agreement?"

Now, listen closely to the response. Your next question is embedded there. By the end of the conversation, you'll have a better understanding of each other's perspectives. This can lead to a mutual resolution, no offense taken!