Episode 73 Becoming Wildly Resilient Conversation: Bridging Differences

Listen as host Sebastian Calmes, a wellness specialist with UK HR Health and Wellness, and Dr. Jess Dominguez, assistant professor of communication, discuss the topic of Bridging Differences.  

Bridging Differences is all about having tough conversations, looking past bias and focusing on what is common as opposed to what is different. Being able to bridge differences is important to well-being because as members of a community, we don't live in isolation. We are diverse in race, creed, genders, opinions and beliefs. As we continue to develop and evolve as human beings, it’s important to remember that our ability to connect with others is a critical component of our well-being. And through remembering our common humanity, we are more likely to see ourselves in everyone, lending to the mutual respects we strive to cultivate for each other.

Transcript:

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Key Takeaways: 

• Having active and diverse social connections is a critical component of anyone’s well-being. According to Self-Expansion Theory, as humans, we strive to surround ourselves with people who inspire us to grow and acquire new skills and experiences. Being able to bridge differences allows us to work through disagreements and opposing opinions so we maintain healthy relationships over long periods of time. 

• But just as important as bridging differences is knowing when and how to set boundaries in our relationships, whether it be with family, friends, supervisors or co-workers. Knowing when to time communications and which mode of commutation to use is just as important as what we choose to say when bridging a difference or setting a boundary.  

• At the center of bridging differences is communication, before we can become expert communicators and effectively bridge differences, we must realize it’s a skill that requires attention, education and practice to develop! 

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