## Pre-Meeting Guidelines - **Active Listening**: Focus on understanding rather than responding. This means: - Maintain eye contact - Avoid interrupting - Reflect back what you've heard ("What I'm hearing is...") - Ask clarifying questions - **Practice Grace**: Remember that both parties are trying their best with the tools they have - **Emotional Safety**: Either person can call for a break at any time #### Active Listening Techniques 1. Pause before responding 2. Use phrases like: - "I hear you saying..." - "It sounds like..." - "Help me understand..." - "What I'm taking from this is..." #### Grace Framework - Assume good intentions - Acknowledge human imperfection - Accept different perspectives - Allow space for growth #### Boundary Setting Format "I feel ___ when ___ happens. What I need is ___." #### Signs to Take a Break - Elevated voice - Physical tension - Defensive responses - Emotional flooding Remember: Progress isn't always linear. Small steps forward are still progress. ## Suggested Goals 1. Establish a comfortable rhythm of regular communication 2. Create shared understanding of each other's communication styles 3. Build small, achievable steps toward closer connection ## Agenda (2 hours) ### 1. Opening (15 mins) - Share appreciation for being here together - Review guidelines and set expectations - Agree on pause mechanism ### 2. Understanding Communication Styles (30 mins) - Discuss introversion/extroversion preferences - Share preferred methods of staying in touch - Identify best times/ways to connect ### 3. Positive Memories (30 mins) - Share favorite memories together - Discuss what worked well in the past - Identify activities both enjoy ### 4. Looking Forward (30 mins) - Brainstorm future activities together - Discuss comfortable frequency of contact - Create simple, achievable connection points ### 5. Next Steps (15 mins) - Schedule next meeting/call - Set small, specific goals for next few weeks - End with positive affirmations