🗣️ Influence Without Control: A Healthier Way to Communicate in Relationships

Influence Without Control: Why Some Conversations Bring Us Closer — and Others Push People Away

Have you ever noticed how some conversations quickly turn into arguments, even when you’re trying to explain yourself clearly?

Or how the harder you try to persuade someone, the more they seem to resist?

In relationships, we’re constantly influencing each other—through our tone, our reactions, and the way we ask for what we need. But many of us were never taught how influence actually works.

In this interactive session, we’ll explore a few surprising insights from Zoe Chance’s engaging talk and her book Influence Is Your Superpower. Through several short video clips and discussion, we’ll look at:

• why emotional reactions often drive our conversations
• why logic alone rarely changes someone’s mind
• how small shifts in communication can reduce
defensiveness and create more openness

We’ll also try a simple exercise that helps turn a frustrating conversation into a more collaborative one.

As always, the first part of the evening will include learning and discussion, followed by our sharing circle in the second hour.

No preparation or prior reading is needed—just curiosity and a willingness to explore how we relate to each other.

------------------------------

✨ All are welcome — regardless of relationship status, timeline, or background. Come for the insights, stay for the connection. ❤️

Our Meeting Agenda:
• Introductions
• Video(s) or Talk (30-45 minutes)
• Group Discussion (15 minutes)
• Bio Break
• Confidential Sharing* (45 minutes)

*We ask attendees to have their cameras on for confidential sharing time.

------------------------------

💌 A Little Support Goes a Long Way
If you’re finding value in these gatherings, we invite you to consider a $20 monthly contribution to help support:

• Our paid Zoom account
• Our Meetup Subscription
• Weekly preparation, curation, and handouts
• Ongoing care of this growing community

Venmo: @Amy-Papazian (last 4 digits: 8444)
10% of each donation supports New Beginnings — our volunteer-led community creating friendship, fun, and fresh experiences.

🤗 Thank you in advance – whether you give now, later, or simply keep showing up, you help make this group special. 💕

------------------------------

☎️ If you need immediate relationship support, please book a free strategy session with Amy Papazian, Divorce Coach, or call/text 650.504.8444.

------------------------------

🎉 New Beginnings Social Events
Ready to reconnect with the world a little more? Our New Beginnings Social Events group offers relaxed, welcoming activities — both in-person around the San Francisco Bay Area and online — for connection, laughter, and new friendships. Explore what’s coming up: meetup.com/bay-area-new-beginnings