A non-defensive question gently invites others to speak and share their thoughts, feelings and beliefs without fearing that we will use the information against them. It is a quest for information that is never harsh, leading, interrogating, or accusing. A non-defensive question is: Innocent It is not tainted with underlying opinions or agendas....

Sometimes, people will try to get you to do things you don't want to do by badgering and manipulating you. They might give you lots of reasons, ridicule, beg, or accuse you. They hope that if they try hard enough and long enough, they will wear you down and convince you to give in. Here's a simple technique to help you deal with these situations....

When someone throws an inflammatory or critical comment our way, it's tempting to take the bait and get into an argument or internally bristle at what he or she said. A better way to handle the situation is to bypass the bait and "READ." Remain calm- Number one rule. Echo and inquire - You may choose to offer a quick question or reflection...

Actions speak louder than words. The way you position your body tells others how available you are to interact and how interested you are in what they have to say. If you want to signal others that you are relaxed, comfortable, open, and interested in them, then "salute" them with your body language. To salute is "to address with expressions of kind...