When trying to reduce conflict use the phrase “why not” more often to lower the tension. The difference between “why” and “why not” seems very subtle. I think there is a psychological case for using the latter more often.
Asking why makes people defensive
When you ask people why they are doing something you put them on the spot. They normally will have a defensive reaction that tries to justify what they are doing or thinking. That reaction sets off an adversarial exchange in many situations.
Asking why not is a softer approach
If instead, you would suggest “why not consider this alternate approach” it seems less threatening. Let’s unpack a situation that happens often to leaders as an example.
Typical leadership issue
Many leaders are quick to give their opinion about a current topic. That action often cuts off discussion among the group and leads to a lack of creativity. One way to approach this leader is with a question about why. “Why do you always give your response before others have a chance to respond?”
That approach would trigger a defensive response from the leader. “I am just trying to be transparent so people know where I stand.” If you then point out that the action stifles open discussion, you are likely to get a negative reaction.
A better approach
Ask instead, “Why not let others speak before revealing your own feelings?” That more positive approach would be more likely to lead to a constructive conversation. You are really asking what would be the impact if the leader changed the pattern. The leader does not need to defend his historical approach.
Conclusion
You can still get into a tangle by using why not, but I believe the odds are better. It seems like a more constructive approach that should lower the rancor.
Bob Whipple, MBA, CPTD, is a consultant, trainer, speaker, and author in the areas of leadership and trust. He is the author of The Trust Factor: Advanced Leadership for Professionals, Understanding E-Body Language: Building Trust Online, and Leading with Trust is Like Sailing Downwind. Bob has many years as a senior executive with a Fortune 500 Company and with non-profit organizations. For more information, or to bring Bob in to speak at your next event, contact him at www.Leadergrow.com, bwhipple@leadergrow.com or 585.392.7763.