Vulnerability, Empathy, and Conflict Management: Connecting and Growing in Personal and Professional Life

Week 6 Discussion Board
This week, we have two very powerful videos by Brene Brown located in the “Resources for Assessment” below. These include “The Power of Vulnerability” and “On Empathy”. Before beginning this week’s discussion assignment, please watch each of these videos. This should only take 25 minutes to complete.
Please choose 2 questions out of the questions below and write 2-3 paragraphs in answer to each question.
After viewing the short video clips from Brene Brown, what is your take-away? Do you struggle with being vulnerable? What about Empathy? Are you able to connect with others in an empathic way? Explain. How can vulnerability and empathy create connectivity in your personal and professional life?
After reading chapter 7 in Bradberry and Greaves, choose 3 Social Awareness Strategies that you struggle with. What are some ways that you can overcome this challenge?
Chapter 15 of your Sparrow and Knight textbook discusses the art of conflict management. Choose 2 conflict management skills noted in the book and summarize the main points. What are some ways you can use each skill in your professional or personal life?
Your initial post is due by Wednesday evening (11:59pm) and your response to a minimum of 2 classmates, by Sunday (11:59pm). Keep in mind, a good response goes beyond saying “I agree” or “I disagree”. A good response is like a good conversation, where you interact with one another on a deeper level. Carefully consider your classmates words and respond in a thoughtful mannerism. Ask questions. Share a different perspective. Students will be graded on the quality of their response to classmates as well as the quality of their initial post. 
Last of all, remember writing on an academic level – even in the discussion board – is expected and will play into your grade. Watch for issues with grammar, punctuation, and tone. Do not write as you might speak, but rather write on an academic level expected within a college course. 
Resources for Assessment:
The Power of Vulnerability | Brene Brown |TED TalksLinks to an external site.

Brené Brown on Empathy Links to an external site.