Adapt to Setbacks
The key here is to expect and learn from setbacks and how to take a long view of planning informed by the best research on effective decision-making in complex, unpredictable environments.
Exercises
Choose Your Lift Level
What do you have capacity for today? Whether it's a light lift, or something a little heavier, taking a step is what counts.
Have Some Fun With Unintended Consequences
Watch and discuss these two short videos (video 1 and video 2) with your political partner on unintended consequences. Then, discuss what this might mean for how you have been approaching conflicts in your relationship.
The Science Behind It
Today, most Americans who try to reach out and speak with people on the other side of our current political divide often leave feeling even more frustrated and alienated than they did before the conversation. This is largely due to unmet expectations - if we can sit down and reason with them, we can find ways to agree on the issues that divide us (essentially by showing them how they are misinformed!). But these effects rarely happen. Changes in rapport and trust in these relationships take time and will experience setbacks. The sooner we can come to terms with this, the more likely we will take such setbacks less seriously and persevere.
Daily Reflection
End the week by connecting the dots. How have the five experiences you had this week affected this relationship?
Set a daily reminder
Get daily exercise reminders on your phone or email throughout The Challenge to stay on track.
- Better navigate politically polarizing situations
- Repair strained relationships with family and friends
- Become a less reactive and more effective communicator
By submitting your cell phone number, you are agreeing to receive periodic text messages from Starts With Us. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for more information. Text STOP to stop receiving messages.