Identify a low-stakes situation where someone expresses frustration or disagreement (e.g., a colleague complaining about a project deadline).

Actively listen to the person for 2-3 minutes without interrupting or offering solutions.

Mirror their body language and tone subtly. If they are leaning forward, slightly lean forward yourself. If their tone is frustrated, reflect a similar tone (without exaggerating).

Use labels to identify their emotions (e.g., "It sounds like you're really frustrated with this deadline," or "Are you feeling overwhelmed by the amount of work?"). Wait for confirmation.

Observe their reaction. Note if they become less agitated or more receptive.

1. Choose a negotiation scenario (e.g., salary negotiation, buying a used car).

2. Round 1: Prepare for the negotiation based on 3 ASSUMPTIONS you hold about the other party (e.g., "They are desperate to sell."). Write these down. Conduct a 5-minute negotiation, sticking rigidly to your assumptions.

3. Round 2: Before negotiating again, create 3 HYPOTHESES about the other party (e.g., "They might be willing to negotiate on price if I offer a quick close."). Prepare questions to test these. Conduct another 5-minute negotiation, actively testing your hypotheses and adapting your approach based on their responses.

4. Reflect: Compare your experience in both rounds. Which approach felt more effective? Why?

Choose a partner and ask them a question about a topic they are passionate about (e.g., their favorite hobby, a current project, or a cause they support).

Listen attentively to your partner for 5 minutes, focusing solely on understanding their perspective. Avoid interrupting or formulating your response.

After 5 minutes, summarize your partner's perspective in your own words in a notebook, aiming for accuracy and empathy. Include their main points and the emotions they conveyed.

Ask your partner if your summary accurately reflects their perspective. If not, ask clarifying questions and revise your summary until they agree it is accurate.

Write a short (3-sentence) statement acknowledging the other party's frustration or concern regarding a fictitious issue (e.g., 'I understand you're upset about the project delay.')

Practice delivering this statement aloud using your normal speaking voice.

Practice delivering the same statement again, but this time use a deep, soft, slow, and downward-inflecting tone, as if you were a late-night FM DJ. Focus on sounding calm and reassuring.

Record both versions of the statement (normal and 'DJ voice') using your phone or computer.

Listen to both recordings and compare. Assess which version sounds more calming and in control.

Initiate a conversation with someone you don't know well (e.g., a barista, a cashier, or a person at a networking event).

Listen attentively to what the other person is saying.

Throughout the conversation, consciously repeat the last three words (or the critical few words) of their sentences as a way to encourage them to continue.

Pay attention to their body language, tone, and the amount of detail they provide after you mirror them. Note any changes.

Conclude the conversation naturally and make a note of your overall impression.