Wednesday, July 26, 2006

How To Influence Changes in Thinking and Behavior

Howard Gardner, the famous and well-known Harvard Psychologist that first developed the notion of Multiple Intelligences, has written and discussed the ways we think and what ways we are able to influence others to change their minds. Dr. Gardner suggests that there are seven ways to influence people to change their mind about politics, religion, education, etc. They are:

Reason: Arguments, debate, convince
Research: Data, facts
Resonance: Identify with the speaker through likability and trust
Redescription: Same story in different ways
Rewards and Redistribution: Verbal and material rewards
Real World Events: 911 convinced many people that Islam is dangerous
Resistances Overcome: Understand and overcome the road blocks

In almost every one of my professional areas of interest, education, ministry, counseling, coaching, consulting, etc I am trying to motivate others to change the ways they think and act. I am, therefore, interested in improving my ability to teach, preach and interact with others more convincingly.

If you are also interested in improving your ability to influence the lives of those around you, including your family, friends and professional contacts, I suggest that you read and practice the skills Steve and I teach in the book, Hope and Change for Humpty Dumpty.

Although the original writer of that old rhyme was a pessimist, we are sure God has a wonderful plan for Humpty's healing.

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