Step 3: Use the Three Trust-Building Questions
To move beyond small talk and into honest dialogue, begin with these three questions:
1. "Can you share a moment or experience that profoundly shaped your beliefs or worldview?"
2. "What’s one hope or concern you have for your family or community’s future that you believe most people share?"
3. "What’s something you wish people who disagree with you could genuinely understand about your perspective?"
The ACTION Framework
Conversations can take unexpected turns. That’s why we use a simple, reliable guide: the ACTION Framework.
A - Ask genuine questions
Lead with curiosity. Ask to learn, not to argue.
C - Consider their perspective fully before replying
Pause. Reflect. Make sure they feel heard before you respond.
T - Think about shared needs beneath the disagreement
What values or hopes might you both care about—even if your solutions differ?
I - Invite collaboration
Look for small steps forward or even just deeper understanding.
O - Offer connection, especially when it’s difficult
Empathy is a choice, and it’s most powerful when conversations become challenging.
N - Next steps focused on solutions, not blame
Close the conversation with something positive to carry forward together.
The Outcome
What happens when people choose connection over division?
They discover greater understanding.
Fear and assumptions begin to fade.
Relationships grow—or heal.
And even when agreement isn’t possible, respect and shared humanity remain.
Built on hope, fueled by courage, The Common Ground Project reminds us that the smallest conversations can spark the biggest changes—in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities.
