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Communication Quote by Jen Hatmaker

“Dialogue is easily spooked, so you must be vigilant against fear, dismissal, manipulation, and apathy—true enemies of safe dialogue. You’ll feel it at first, deep down, the urge to rebut, rebuke, refute. It will be a cold rock in your gut, tempting you to correct or disagree, or to be offended and…” quote by Jen Hatmaker
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““Dialogue is easily spooked, so you must be vigilant against fear, dismissal, manipulation, and apathy—true enemies of safe dialogue. You’ll feel it at first, deep down, the urge to rebut, rebuke, refute. It will be a cold rock in your gut, tempting you to correct or disagree, or to be offended and center yourself in that person’s story. But that instinct can be overcome, and the results of someone feeling heard and respected are immediate and palpable. It takes a fairly high level of humility, empathy, and courage to keep a space open and healthy. It is a developed skill that takes practice.””

Jen Hatmaker

About This Quote

Source Talk: Interview with Jen Hatmaker, 2023

Effective dialogue requires vigilance against fear and dismissal, demanding humility, empathy, and courage to keep conversations open and respectful.

In simple terms: Good conversation needs humility and empathy to stay open.

Key Takeaway

Practice humility and empathy in discussions.

Themes

communication empathy humility courage dialogue

Mood

thoughtful encouraging

Type

advice inspirational

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • customer service
  • family discussions
  • online forums

Key Concepts

psychology active listening conflict resolution

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you notice when fear arises?
  • What steps help you stay open to others?
A Different Perspective

If participants feel threatened, they may shut down, limiting dialogue.

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