It is important to understand that every problem has a size. Big problems are problems in which you need an adult to help you with. Little problems are problems that you should ignore or solve by yourself.
After deciding if our problem is little or big, we need to make sure we react accordingly. This helps us make better 'wise leader choices' that keep us safe and everyone else around us safe. Matching our reactions to our problems also helps us make and keep friends.
Solving problems by allowing yourself to tell someone how you feel in a calm and effective manner.
Facts: “I don’t like it when_____________”
Feelings: “I feel____________”
Future: “I’d like it if_________________”
At times, a simple apology may not seem an effective way to solve a problem. This sincere format enables one to provide empathy and assurance that such poor choices are unlikely to happen again.
“I’m sorry for__________”
“I imagine you felt______________”
“Next time I will______________”
Stop and Set it Up: Breath, look, listen, and think. Where, when, and how will I confront this person.
Explain: What happened that you didn’t like, want, or are worried about? What do you want instead?
Affirm and Acknowledge: Affirm your right to be treated with dignity. Acknowledge anything you may have done to contribute to the problem.
Lock in (or out, take a vacation): Do you want to continue this friendship? If so, on what terms? You don’t need to speak this step out loud to someone, but sometimes it can be good to.