“Listening is being able to be changed by the other person.”
Alan Alda
Is your December calendar full of togetherness? We spend more time with friends and family this time of year. Along with the lighthearted fun, why not take the chance to connect with people about meaningful things? With that in mind, here are some tips for conversations about climate change.
Why should we talk about it?
If you are reading this article, I’m guessing you care that our planet is warming. You’re in good company. Two-thirds of Americans are concerned. Often, the antidote to worry is action. The good news is It can be painless, because the best thing we can do to help is to talk about it with others. It’s that simple. The more people talk about climate change, the more likely we are to solve the problem.
Why does it seem hard?
If you hesitate to bring up climate change, it may be because most of us underestimate how many others feel the same way. In fact, there is a very high likelihood you will find common ground with the person standing in front of you.
This clever four-minute video gives a helpful guide on how to have a meaningful conversation with someone about climate change. And here is a two-minute one on the same topic. I’ve summarized these and added a few things I have figured out along the way:
1. Start with a question
Don’t assume you know what someone thinks about climate change. Ask them and you might be surprised by what you hear. Don’t just start dumping facts, because this is the fastest way to shut down things down. Nobody wants to be ambushed at a holiday party (or ever). The goal is not to convince the other person of your views, but to learn from one another.
2. Listen (the hard part)
Once you ask your question, stop and truly hear the response. Don’t interrupt or disagree even if your tongue is bleeding from biting. Ask follow-up questions to really understand their perspective. This is the hardest part for most of us.
3. Tell your story and make a connection
We all have different reasons to care about climate change, but it is affecting each of us in some way. Try bringing up a common interest. For example, does this person like to ski, go to the beach, fish, travel, or drink wine? Make the connection between climate change and the things we love.
4. End on a positive note
Optimism is infectious. Mention some positive things that are happening to solve the problem, or steps you are taking your own life.
5. Practice
The more conversations you have, the easier it becomes. And by the way, these tips are helpful in conversations about any topic. While some people are naturally gifted listeners, most of us need to polish this skill. Give it a try. Here’s hoping you have some meaningful conversations this holiday season!
I’ll be taking a break from my weekly articles to enjoy the season. Looking forward to connecting in 2023!
Let’s do something about climate change. Learn about it. Think about it. Talk about it.