Cultivate a Disciplined Self Consciousness. 3
For all of this, a disciplined self-consciousness is a negotiation treasure. Part of the discipline, in not reacting, is to know that there is a difference between having a feeling, thought, or even conviction, and acting on it. Knowing oneself is a first step in keeping the ego under control.
SKILL ACQUISITION:
Try Mindfulness Meditation.
How do we develop and increase this type of self knowledge? There are a range of activities and even exercises that enhance cultivation of self awareness and promote self knowledge. For nearly a decade, Professor Len Riskin4 has been promoting mindfulness meditation as a way not only of reducing stress but also of increasing awareness of one’s inner processes on the theory that this improves capacity as a negotiator or mediator. Sitting quietly, following the breath, being aware of bodily sensations, letting go particular emotions or thoughts – again, sensing the freedom of awareness without compulsive action – and, with bare attention, gaining a greater sense of presence and the richness of just being are all part of this type of exercise.