Book Review- The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More
After gaining a huge online following, Jefferson Fisher has turned his popular lessons on communication into a bestselling book, The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More.
Fisher has written a highly accessible and practical guide, sharing communication strategies that are easy to understand and apply. Rather than overwhelming the reader with a long list of techniques, he encourages selecting just a few that feel most useful and practicing them until they become second nature.
One highlight of the book is Fisher’s “three rules”:
Say it with control
Say it with confidence
Say it to connect
Each rule comes with actionable tips, sample scripts, and encouraging guidance to help readers apply these principles in real-life conversations. For example, the “say it to connect” rule advises readers to set the tone and direction for important conversations. Fisher suggests starting with a statement like, “I want to speak to you about ____,” then “call your shot” by stating the desired outcome: “By the end of this conversation, I want us to ______.” Finally, seek the other person's buy-in with something like, “Can we agree to that?”
Why am I including a review of this book as part of a wellness blog? A few reasons. The tone of the book is conversational and friendly, making it easy to engage with. It’s filled with practical takeaways that readers from all walks of life will appreciate. Most of all, strengthening our communication skills not only improves how we relate to others but also helps us express our authentic selves more clearly—leading to healthier, more fulfilling relationships.
Let me know if you read the book or watch some of Jefferson Fisher’s videos on Instagram. I have applied several of the lessons in my own conversations (I have removed unnecessary “I’m sorry” and “LOL” comments from emails). I would love to know what you have tried.
Stay well,
Kendra
