Elizabeth Bernstein of the Wall Street Journal writes about how to motivate people and provide an effective pep talk. The key is to listen and then to reflect the person’s reality — much like communication in the mediation room. “Repeat the person’s concerns out loud so he or she feels heard.” It is amazing how this simple step can, and we often do see, calm a person and help them participate effectively in a difficult conversation. Bernstein also suggests, “know when to stop…and don’t argue if the person disagrees with what you are saying.” She quotes a doctor as advising, “you’ve implanted something in their brain for them to think about later.” In divorce mediation negotiations, these communication skills are key to helping parties think about their interests and needs as the family — parents and children all — go through a difficult transition. http://www.wsj.com/articles/how-to-give-the-most-motivating-pep-talk-1434389035