Curious

the REST of the week #130

It’s the rest of the week—and almost Election Day in the U.S.

Photo by Claudio Schwarz on Unsplash

It is stressful. Intense.

North Carolina is a swing state and there’s no way of knowing who will snag our 16 electoral votes. Today, both candidates were here in the greater Charlotte area holding rallies.

In keeping with the nature of this newsletter, I want to contribute to the conversation about how to stay calm and avoid blowing up your relationships (rather than rant about politics).

A couple of elections ago, I noticed how intense and feisty I was getting when I talked with people who had a different order of political priorities than I did.

(Noticing your own emotions—especially when they move into the red zone—is always a good starting place).

In one particular conversation, I experienced an epiphany when I realized how emotionally invested I was in convincing a friend to see the candidates from my point of view. At the same time, it became obvious that presenting my logic, facts, and figures, would have absolutely no effect on how he would vote.

Suddenly, I became curious as to why. Why my intensity? Why his difficulty in seeing the issues from anther perspective? So I got curious and let go of the need to convince.

Genuine interest in another person’s beliefs and opinions has felt so much more restful. It has helped me learn more about myself and others—and fostered understanding and compassion.

Not surprisingly, I suppose, I have enjoyed more conversations that are calm and about the actual exchange of ideas. It’s easier to open up (heart and mind) when you don’t feel like someone else’s well being depends on you seeing things exactly the same way they do.

Here’s to curiosity.

May your rest be sweet.

Alicia