Civil discourse refers to the exchange of ideas and opinions in a respectful manner, even when there are disagreements. Here are some quick checks to ensure your conversation is civil:
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Listen Actively: Are you truly listening to understand the other person's perspective, or just waiting for your turn to speak?
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Respectful Language: Are you using language that is respectful and avoids insults, name-calling, or inflammatory remarks?
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Stay On Topic: Are you keeping the discussion focused on the issue at hand, rather than attacking the person you’re speaking with?
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Ask Questions: Are you encouraging the other person to explain their viewpoint by asking clarifying questions instead of making assumptions?
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Acknowledge Differences: Are you recognizing that it's okay to have different opinions and validating the other person's right to hold theirs?
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Avoid Interrupting: Are you allowing others to finish their thoughts before jumping in with your own?
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Seek Common Ground: Are you trying to find areas of agreement or shared values, even in disagreement?
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Be Open-Minded: Are you willing to reconsider your own viewpoints based on the conversation?
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Use "I" Statements: Are you expressing your thoughts and feelings using "I" statements (e.g., "I feel..." or "I think...") to reduce defensiveness?
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Know When to Step Back: Are you able to recognize when a conversation is becoming unproductive, and do you know when to pause or take a break?
Using these checks can help foster a more constructive and civil conversation.
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