Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques

Manage stress by adjusting the conversations that we have with ourselves.

Show Notes

Stress can get in the way of our communication with others. To manage our stress, psychologist Jenny Taitz says, we first need to adjust the conversations that we have with ourselves.
Taitz is an assistant clinical professor in psychiatry at the University of California, Los Angeles, and the author of several books, including Stress Resets: How to Soothe Your Body and Mind in Minutes. According to her, much of the stress we experience is self-created through negative thought patterns and harsh self-criticism. “We're doing this to ourselves all the time,” she says. But as we become aware of these unhelpful mental loops, Taitz’ “resets” can help us disrupt them and reframe self-talk in more productive ways
In addition to changing our self-talk, Taitz offers tools for refreshing our communication with others. In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, she and host Matt Abrahams explore her G.I.V.E. framework — how being gentle, interested, validating, and easy-mannered equips us for more positive conversations with ourselves and others

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Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction
Host Matt Abrahams introduces guest Jenny Taitz, a clinical psychologist and an assistant clinical professor in psychiatry at UCLA.
(00:00:51) Understanding the Stress Cycle
Explanation of the stress cycle, highlighting common mistakes in stress management.
(00:02:38) Practical Tips for Managing Stress
Advice on resetting the mind, body, and behavior to manage stress more effectively.
(00:05:50) Addressing Overthinking and Rumination
Techniques for reducing overthinking and rumination, and recognizing and redirecting unproductive thought patterns.
(00:08:45) Swapping "Why" for "How"
Benefits of changing one's internal dialogue from "why" to "how" questions, facilitating a more proactive and less stressful mindset.
(00:10:56) Communicating Empathy
Introduction to the GIVE acronym, a method to help improve empathetic communication.
(00:12:58) The Final Three Questions
Jenny shares her personal methods for managing stress, a communicator she admires, and three ingredients for successful communication.
(00:17:33) Conclusion



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Creators & Guests

Host
Matt Abrahams
Lecturer Stanford University Graduate School of Business | Think Fast Talk Smart podcast host

What is Think Fast Talk Smart: Communication Techniques?

One of the most essential ingredients to success in business and life is effective communication.
Join Matt Abrahams, best-selling author and Strategic Communication lecturer at Stanford Graduate School of Business, as he interviews experts to provide actionable insights that help you communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact. From handling impromptu questions to crafting compelling messages, Matt explores practical strategies for real-world communication challenges.

Whether you’re navigating a high-stakes presentation, perfecting your email tone, or speaking off the cuff, Think Fast, Talk Smart equips you with the tools, techniques, and best practices to express yourself effectively in any situation. Enhance your communication skills to elevate your career and build stronger professional relationships.

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