Time: 1 Hour
STEP 1: Determine whom you want/need to meet with and what you’d like to discuss. If you are aiming to repair a strained relationship, consider reaching out in advance and requesting to meet for lunch first, then pick a place near their home or work to show that you are serious about working on the relationship.
STEP 2: Make the call and tell them you’d like to meet. Make it convenient for them, even if it’s bringing food to their home. If lunch feels like too big of a commitment, meet for coffee instead.
STEP 3: Write down a few things you want to say. Even if you don’t say everything, having it clear in your head will be therapeutic for you. Don’t overthink it—just because you reach out or get a quick bite to eat doesn’t mean you have to dive head first into your conflict. Be calm, gracious, and present. Allow yourself to respond to the situation as it happens and maintain composure and respect.
STEP 4: Enjoy your time with that person and thank them for agreeing to see you. Eat with them and, if feasible, share with you wrote down with them. It may be exactly what they needed to hear. If it is negative news, share it with respect and empathy
STEP 5: Scheduling a lunch, going to play golf, getting a manicure or pedicure on a monthly or quarterly basis provides good consistency to build/enhance your relationship. Building or repairing relationships takes patience, dedication and effort, so give yourself credit and grace for reaching out and making an effort.
