How to Say NO Without Losing Your Friends – Episode 5008
Host: Scott Smith
Episode Description
Scott shares powerful communication techniques from his background in improv, teaching listeners how to better handle difficult conversations and maintain a growth mindset. He weaves these lessons through a touching story about his 93-year-old mother’s decision to give up her driver’s license, demonstrating how acceptance and positive framing can make life’s transitions easier.
Key Takeaways
– Using “Yes, and” in communication helps maintain open dialogue and avoid blocking conversations
– The word “yet” is a powerful tool for maintaining a growth mindset when facing challenges
– Structure and patterns are essential for success, even in seemingly spontaneous activities like improv
– Sometimes giving things up can be reframed positively, as demonstrated by Scott’s mother’s attitude about having a “chauffeur”
Featured Story
Scott shares how his 93-year-old mother handled giving up her driver’s license with grace and humor. Instead of being upset about failing the vision test, she chose to see it as finally having a personal chauffeur (her daughter) to drive her anywhere she wants to go. Her positive attitude about this major life transition serves as an inspiring example of how to handle difficult changes.
Scott’s Three-Step Approach
1. Start with “Yes” instead of blocking communication with immediate nos
2. Follow with “And” to maintain dialogue while redirecting the conversation
3. Use the word “Yet” when facing challenges to maintain a growth mindset
Memorable Quotes
“People like to hear the word yes. What follows the yes doesn’t really matter.”
“If you say ‘yet,’ you will extend everything.”
“I have waited my entire life to have a chauffeur to take me anywhere I want to go.”
Connect With Scott
Search for The Daily Boost on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
https://www.faceyourpassion.com
https://www.9minuteclaritycode.com
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