Group Work and Friendly Conversations
What is an example of a time when it would not be appropriate to start a conversation with someone?
While they are busy at work, while they are in the middle of a conversation with someone else, etc.
Why is it important to spend time on our hobbies?
They bring enjoyment, fun, and relaxation to our lives and can help us feel purpose and enthusiasm in our lives. Hobbies can also help us meet new people.
What are boundaries?
Boundaries are limits that we set to protect our peace and comfort
What is one way that you keep track of your personal responsibilities so that you can take care of all of them?
Use a planner, set reminders for yourself, create a schedule, do not take on more responsibilities when you feel like you already have enough, etc.
What is an example of an unhealthy strategy for dealing with stress?
Not sleeping, eating too little or too much, getting angry at others, isolating from others, etc.
How can you join a conversation that is already happening or try to talk to someone who is already in a conversation?
Wait until there is a natural pause in the conversation to join the conversation where it left off
Why is it important to use “I” statements when you are trying to resolve a conflict?
They make sure that you speak from your own experience and express your feelings without making someone feel attacked.
How are boundaries different from requests?
Requests are questions that other people can respond to, and boundaries are statements that you set for yourself and that other people do not get to change or influence
Is this an example of sympathy or empathy and why:
"I'm sorry that this happened to you"
Sympathy, because it expresses pity and does not meet the other person where they are in their feelings
So we can do things we know we are comfortable with and great at and improve at things we know are not our strong suits, so we can ask for help with things that we need help with, so we can spend more time doing things we enjoy, etc.
What does it mean to build consensus in a group?
To come to an agreement or compromise so that the group can continue moving forward
Turn this "you" statement into an "I" statement:
"You are the worst, you’re always so rude to me!"
I feel hurt and disrespected when I am treated like my feelings are not important and when I am spoken down to.
Give an example of a boundary AND a consequence you set for if someone does not respect that boundary?
I do not like when people raise their voice at me, and if you continue to raise your voice at me, I will go back home.
Is this an example of sympathy or empathy and why:
"It sounds like you are going through a very difficult and disappointing experience. I am here and I am listening."
Empathy because it meets the person where they are in their feelings and does not try to change the situation
What is one example of a place/situation where you self-advocate?
At school when you ask for help from staff, at work when you ask for more hours, etc.
What are 2 guidelines to remember when working in groups?
Make sure everyone participates, make sure speaking time is shared evenly, listen actively to your peers, disagree respectfully, etc.
What are 2 strategies that can be helpful for resolving conflicts?
Take space or time away from the situation, find a compromise that makes all people as happy as possible, use "I" statements, etc.
What are 2 strategies to help you deal with people who do not respect your boundaries?
Set consequences for boundary violations, be consistent, don't change your mind even if people try to push back on your boundaries, remind people what your boundaries are, etc.
Imagine you are talking to a friend who sprained their ankle. Give one example of a sympathetic response you could say to them and one example of an empathetic response you could say to them.
Sympathetic: "At least you can still walk around"
Empathetic: "It must be really hard to not be able to move as easily as you used to, and I am here for you if you want to talk about it"
What are 3 examples of healthy strategies for dealing with stress?
Taking breaks, healthy eating and hydration, exercise, listening to music, talking to someone, etc.