Conversations Are Improv

You never know where a conversation will go.

That’s what makes them powerful.

Every time we talk to someone, we’re making hundreds—maybe thousands—of small choices.

Do we stay with what they just said—or pivot to something new?

Do we ask a follow-up—or share a personal story we were reminded of?

Do we circle back—or move forward?

Conversations aren’t scripted.

They’re improv.

And great improv follows a few powerful rules.

Rule #1: Yes, and…

Accept what’s offered and build on it.

Stay open. Be curious. Let the other person lead you somewhere new.

Rule #2: Treat your partner like a genius.

Fall in love with their choices.

Assume what they’re saying matters.

Assume their story is worth hearing.

The best conversations ask us to show up fully—present, listening, and generous.

They’re a chance to really see someone.

To understand what life looks like from their side of the table.

You don’t need the perfect question or a brilliant insight.

You just need to care.

The smallest choices—eye contact, a curious pause, remembering what matters—make the biggest difference.

This week, in every conversation:

Say yes.

See the genius in front of you.

And make them feel heard, valued, and understood.

What do you do to make your conversations count?