You're in a high-stakes business negotiation. How can you control your emotions for successful communication?

Being a communication coach I have realized communication is not about Do's and Don't's , it's only about mindfulness. When you are calm and cool your choice of words, paralinguistics, gestures and facial expressions will be on spot and the moment you are triggered, things get out of control. You lose track of words, listening is compromised and don't ask about tone 😂 So, train your brain to stay composed and it's gonna help you everywhere.

Una estrategia que me ha resultado muy útil en negociaciones críticas es aplicar la filosofía del arte marcial Aikido: salir del punto de conflicto. Generalmente las partes entablan una lucha de fuerzas desgastante en la que ambas terminan perdiendo por sostener una postura en forma intransigente. Tener claro el objetivo principal en lugar de defender una posición me ayudó con frecuencia a encontrar caminos alternativos. También considero clave la capacidad de empatizar con el otro: comprender sus motivaciones, qué esta diciendo y qué quiere decir realmente, porque piensa como piensa, que factores pueden influir en sus decisiones, asi como identificar patrones, son elementos útiles para persuadir y convencer sin agredir ni lastimar.

Identify specific triggers that prompt strong emotional reactions in negotiations. Reflect on past experiences to recognize these triggers, allowing you to prepare and manage your responses effectively. This self-awareness ensures you remain composed and focused, even in challenging moments.

Incorporate mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and pausing to collect your thoughts. This practice helps you stay present and manage stress, ensuring your emotions don’t overpower your strategic thinking. Mindfulness fosters a calm, clear-headed approach to negotiations.

Define your negotiation objectives clearly before entering discussions. Knowing your key aims and acceptable outcomes keeps you focused and less likely to be swayed by emotional responses. Clear goals act as a guide, helping you maintain a strategic and composed stance.

"When two minds meet, a new world is born" Respect, Empathy, and Authenticity. Remember the Japanese concept of "Wa" (harmony), fostering a collaborative atmosphere. Use positive body language, mirroring, and gentle humor to establish trust. By building rapport, you'll create a safe space for constructive dialogue, creative problem-solving, and mutually beneficial agreements. It also extends far beyond the boardroom, cultivating a network of meaningful relationships that can lead to new opportunities, collaborations, growth, and most importantly connection which in my work is equal to purpose! Nurture harmonious connections that expand your professional ecosystem. ✨

Build a connection with your counterpart based on mutual respect and understanding. Show empathy, actively listen, and find common ground to reduce emotional tension. A positive interpersonal dynamic fosters a collaborative rather than confrontational negotiation atmosphere.

Employ constructive language that promotes cooperation and mitigates negative emotions. Avoid blame or criticism; instead, express your needs in a way that invites collaboration. Phrases like “I understand your perspective” encourage a positive, solution-focused dialogue.

After each negotiation, reflect on your emotional performance and identify areas for improvement. Consider the emotional dynamics and adapt your approach for future discussions. Continuous learning from each experience enhances your ability to manage emotions and communicate effectively.