How to have better conversations

I was at a dinner party last week. It was more than a little awkward. After a stilted attempt at talking politics the conversation turned quickly to petty gossip on mutual acquaintances. Everyone finally began to relax. A plus-one at the end of the table then butted in with “Have you ever heard that proverb? Great minds discuss ideas, average minds discuss events, small minds discuss people.” An instant conversation killer.

Daniel Teitelbaum is one of the great minds behind School of Life, a British social enterprise that explores good ideas for everyday living.

“We look at conversation as a form of adventure that can take our lives in different directions,” he says.

“By exploring different approaches to conversation, and the different mindsets we find ourselves in during conversation, we can discover new ways to engage the people we speak to and new ways to explore ourselves.”

Classes are interactive and intimate, limited to only 25 places. They absolutely require participation; both quiet, solo participation and active, group participation. The intimate size is to allow for open sharing.

Luckily for those a little shy about the participatory aspect these classes will be hosted at a bar – Cake Wines new pop-up bar in Fitzroy. Check out their page which offers great events throughout August including screenings of Bill Cunningham’s New York and performances from great local talent.

facebook.com/CakeWines
facebook.com/TheSchoolofLifeAustralia
theschooloflife.com/world/australia

HOW TO HAVE BETTER CONVERSATIONS
August 14, 21 and 28
83 Kerr Street, Fitzroy