I'd like to share some invaluable insights from my long-time friend and mentor, Dave Frees.
Dave has a unique approach to persuasion and influence, and he's developed a technique that can help parents get their children to listen to them almost immediately. It's called the "Six word question."
Let's dive into a summarized version of his insights.
Dave Frees, an expert in persuasion and the author of "The Language of Parenting", uses a technique called the "six-word question" that can transform relationships, especially between parents and children.
Often, when children are asked to do something beneficial for them, they might refuse out of fear or misunderstanding. They'll say: "I can't", "I won't", or just simply display defiant behavior.
Traditional responses like "Yes, you can" only lead to argumentation, reinforcing the child's belief that they can't. Instead, Dave suggests creating curiosity by changing the tone, speed, and expression while speaking.
Then, instead of arguing, acknowledge their feelings with "I know you feel like you can't, right now"
Finally, pose the six-word question: "What would happen if you did?" or "What would happen if you could?"
This approach makes the child visualize themselves succeeding, leveraging human biology to encourage a positive response.
