If you are like most people you truly believe that if you reinforce the behavior you’re looking for, you’re probably going to get more of it. Do you believe that? Somehow we feel its okay to reinforce two populations: small children and dogs. If it works on small children and dogs, do you suppose it [...]
Do you ever notice you’ll do that? You’ll say things like, “Well, to be quite honest…” or “I’m gonna be honest,” or “Do you want me to be honest?” It’s interesting that when people ask me, “Do you want me to be honest?” I usually answer, “No, it would be out of character for you, [...]
The Yeah buts… Do you ever notice how people get engaged into that kind of conversation? “Well, I think we ought to do this” “well, yeah but that won’t work.” Do you ever notice that when you “yeah but” on each other you are actually creating more of a conflict because the words “yeah but” [...]
Do you notice that people often will give you some form of appreciation? They will say “thanks so much” or “I really appreciate what you did,” or “you were enormously helpful.” Do you ever notice how people respond when you thank them? Often, you will say “thanks so much,” and they will say “no problem,” [...]
You will notice that “you should” on yourself often. You will say things like “I should exercise.” “I should quit smoking.” “I should be nicer.” “I should spend more time with my kids.” You’ll notice that every time you think you should do something, you actually feel bad and you’re reluctant. If you say “I [...]
Have you ever noticed that sometimes you meet someone and you get along with them easily? Yet other times you meet someone and it seems to be uphill all the time. You have to do lots of “maintenance” and getting along with them seems like a chore. There are even times when you know someone [...]