What I do after a difficult conversation?

What to do after a difficult conversation?

All of us have experienced difficult conversations at some point of time. Some words or actions incite us into a downward spiral that we seem to get pulled in and are unable to stop.

And then follows emotional outbursts, not listening to the opposite party, talking over each other and so on. We usually walk out of such conversations with bitterness. Most of the time, we lose trust in the relationship and the opposite party

Once we settle down, almost always, we realise that we could have handled it differently. And feel the need to take steps to repair the damage caused

For me, things that have worked are

A) Honestly acknowledge my part in the conversation that didn’t go well.

B) Apologize for my side of the erroneous behaviour

C) Seek the opposite party’s views on what we can do to repair the damage

D) Take proactive steps to build trust. Contribute to the emotional bank balance (Refer Dr. Stephen R. Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Families®)

E) And finally give space and time for the other party to process this.

These steps, have always helped me emerge as an emotionally stronger person with improved relationships and connections

What are some other things that have helped you in this area? Please share.