Leah Hadley, AFC®️, CDFA®️, MAFF®️

Over the years, I have observed firsthand how a lack of savings can significantly increase stress levels for individuals. The uncertainty and anxiety of not having a financial cushion can affect their overall well-being and decision-making. Conversely, I have also seen the immense relief and gratitude people feel when they have savings to fall back on when there's a loss of income or unexpected expenses. This financial safety net provides immediate peace of mind and allows for better long-term planning and stability. The contrast between the stress of financial insecurity and the comfort of having savings underscores the critical importance of prudent financial planning and saving for the future.

Problem-solving and critical thinking are paramount when navigating a business through a recession. These skills enable the identification of core issues, fostering innovative solutions and adaptability in the face of economic challenges. Critical thinkers anticipate potential risks, make data-driven decisions, and develop robust contingency plans. Enhancing these skills through continuous learning and cultivating a curious mindset can significantly improve a business's resilience and ability to thrive during tough economic times.

Empathy allows individuals to understand and share the feelings of others, which is crucial in resolving conflicts. When family members feel heard and validated, it fosters an environment of mutual respect and understanding. This emotional connection can pave the way for open communication, helping to address underlying issues and rebuild broken trust. Demonstrating empathy shows that you value the other person's perspective and are committed to restoring harmony within the family, making it a vital component of any reconciliation effort.

It's crucial to pose your questions from a standpoint of genuine curiosity rather than judgment. This approach prevents the other person from feeling defensive. By inquiring from a place of curiosity, you demonstrate that you value their viewpoint and are sincerely interested in gaining deeper insight into it.

Involving a third party, such as a mediator, can be invaluable when it comes to dealing with a power imbalance. A mediator can help facilitate communication, creating a space where both parties feel heard.

I recently participated in a DISC assessment for a Board I serve on, and it was enlightening to discover the diverse communication styles among the members. The assessment revealed both the similarities and differences within our group, demonstrating how tools like DISC can foster educational and productive discussions beyond specific conflicts. Understanding our varied approaches enriches our perspective when addressing conflicts, allowing us to tackle them with newfound insight.