# data[].attributes.body
There has been quite a bit of research on the caring/skill framework that Stephen discussed on Friday. The terminology is slightly different Warmth and Competence. This book chapter from shares a definition and describes what the authors call the Stereotype Content Model, i.e. all humans stereotype each other by the level of warmth and competence we perceive from each other. Its roots are in evolutionary psychology. This chapter goes into quite a deep dive around the research at the time of publication in 2008. I have a number of the research papers from the authors Friske, Cuddy and Glick if anyone wants further information. Happy reading 🤓

# data[].attributes.body
Interesting that MI is blending with ACT.

It’ll fit. Arguably, much of ACT is already in MI.

I think a more powerful blending would be with IFS.

# data[].attributes.body
1. Calm – grounded and steady, even when difficult emotions are present.

2. Curious – open and interested in understanding what’s happening inside.

3. Clear – able to see situations and parts without confusion or overwhelm.

4. Compassionate – kind and caring toward oneself and one’s parts.

5. Confident – trusting in one’s capacity to handle challenges.

6. Courageous – willing to face difficult experiences and emotions.

7. Creative – flexible and open to new possibilities and solutions.

8. Connected – feeling connected to oneself and others.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Talking To Change: An Introduction

Talking to Change: A Motivational Interviewing Podcast is an engaging and informative audio series dedicated to exploring the Spirit, Core Skills, and Applications of Motivational Interviewing (MI). H...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Talking To Change - A Motivational Interviewing Podcast

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Motivational Interviewing Podcast; MI Podcast; Motivational Interviewing; MI; Podcast; Glenn Hinds; Sebastian Kaplan; Seb Kaplan;

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
​ Welcome to the home of Motivational Interviewing in the UK and Ireland
The members of MINT UK and Ireland are passionate about representing evidence-based, up-to-date practice, training, research, and implementation of MI.

To offer people interested in Motivational Interviewing a place to learn, grow and develop their practice and training of MI.MI enthusiasts are people who want to learn more about Motivational Interviewing. Membership is free and open to anyone interested in Motivational Interviewing and entitles you to receive regular newsletters with information about meetings and events that you might be interested in attending. MINT UK and Ireland offer on-line presentations throughout the year, one in-person meeting each year and a monthly community of practice on-line. You can become a member by clicking

here. Membership
There are two types of membership, MINT Members and MI Enthusiasts. MINT members belong to the international organisation, Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers (MINT) and pay an annual fee for their membership. You can find out more about becoming a MINT member here.

​

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
​ Welcome to the home of Motivational Interviewing in the UK and Ireland The members of MINT UK and Ireland are passionate about representing evidence-based, up-to-date practice, training,...

# data[].attributes.body
Bill has kindly made these videos freely available - there are many wonderful and super skilful examples of MI here

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn how The Change Companies can help you implement this evidence-based practice through training, free videos and support resources.

# data[].attributes.headline
In MI the way we deliver affirmations must be fundamentally recalibrated when moving between English and Polish cultural frameworks. While the "MI Spirit" remains universal, the linguistic and social delivery of that spirit changes significantly.

# data[].attributes.subject
In MI the way we deliver affirmations must be fundamentally recalibrated when moving between English and Polish cultural frameworks. While the "MI Spirit" remains universal, the linguistic and social delivery of that spirit changes significantly.

# data[].attributes.body
In English-speaking practice, affirmations are frequently used as "social lubricants" to build warmth. It is common to hear broad, encouraging phrases like "You’re doing a great job" or "It’s wonderful that you’re here." In the UK, these are generally accepted as supportive social glue. However, in Polish culture, there is a powerful "sincerity filter." Because of a cultural history that is skeptical of overly positive "official" talk, a Polish client may perceive "bubbly" affirmations as "empty propaganda" or feel the practitioner is being patronizing. To be effective, a Polish affirmation must be fact-based and verifiable. Instead of saying "You are so strong," a practitioner should say, "You have managed to maintain your job and family responsibilities despite these significant health challenges." This turns the affirmation into a data point the client cannot logically argue with.

The Role of Formality: Pan and Pani

A major linguistic hurdle is the level of formality. English uses a universal "you," which naturally fits the MI "partnership" model. Polish requires a choice between the formal Pan/Pani (Sir/Madam) and the informal Ty. While MI advocates for egalitarianism, jumping to the informal Ty too quickly in a Polish clinical setting can feel like a boundary violation or a lack of professional respect. Many Polish clients expect a certain "professional gravity" (powaga) from a specialist. Using Pan/Pani while providing affirmations shows respect for the client’s status and makes the praise feel more professional and "earned." It maintains a respectful distance that actually allows for deeper "Epistemic Trust."

Validating the "Grumble" (Narzekanie)

A unique aspect of Polish communication is the cultural norm of "grumbling." In the UK, a client's focus on obstacles might be labeled as "Sustain Talk" (resistance to change). However, for a Polish client, identifying every possible problem is often a sign of intelligence and "realistic thinking." In this context, the most powerful affirmation isn't about the client's "inner light"—it is the validation of the difficulty. By affirming that "This situation is objectively very difficult," you build more trust than by trying to "bright-side" the situation. Acknowledging the harsh reality proves you are a "realist" who is worth listening to.

Competence and Logic over Sentiment

English MI often prioritizes "Emotional Affirmation" to boost self-esteem. Polish culture tends to prioritize Competence and Logic. A Polish client is more likely to feel empowered when you affirm their analytical skills or their track record of execution rather than their feelings. For example, instead of affirming how they feel about a change, you might affirm the logic they used to reach a conclusion: "You have analysed the risks of your current behaviour and developed a plan with a high probability of success."

Directness and Professional Gravity

The linguistic structure of Polish also favors directness. English MI relies heavily on "softeners" like "I wonder if..." or "It seems to me..." In a Polish setting, this can sometimes come across as a lack of confidence or even intellectual dishonesty. Polish clients often respond better to direct, declarative facts. Affirmations delivered as straightforward observations—rather than soft suggestions—carry more weight.

Summary: Low-Frequency, High-Precision

To succeed with a Polish client, a practitioner should move away from the high-frequency "cheerleader" style common in the West. Instead, adopt a low-frequency, high-precision model. By respecting the formal boundaries of Pan/Pani and focusing on logical validation over emotional praise, you prove to the client that you are seeing their reality clearly rather than just trying to "make them feel better."

# data[].attributes.headline
Challenges with the concept of the Growth Mindset 

# data[].attributes.subject
Challenges with the concept of the Growth Mindset 

# data[].attributes.body
This is an article by psychologist and researcher Tom Curran that articulately sums up the current research and challenges with the concept of fixed v growth mindset. Interested in hearing different views.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Samuel Beckett Would Hate Your Motivational Poster

# data[].attributes.body
The longer I personally think about the German culture of praise or affirmation, the more confused I actually become. For example, the most common and greatest praise you can hear in my region of Germany is “that wasn't bad” or, if you like a meal, “that tastes not bad.” So, did you assume it would be bad beforehand? This form of praise is used especially when you don't have a deep emotional connection to the person. If there is a deep emotional connection, however, it can also become very “emotional.” Affirmation is used less than praise itself in my environment, especially in sports and science. In my sport, praise is used a lot, especially in game situations or in live coaching, while affirmation is found at most in one-on-one conversations.

# data[].attributes.body
Hong Kong sits at the intersection of East and West. While we are highly international, many of HK people are still deeply shaped by traditional Chinese cultural values — particularly modesty, collectivism, and the importance of not standing out too much from the group.

In more traditional contexts, praise is often downplayed or denied, especially in public or when coming from someone we do not know well. Accepting praise too directly can feel uncomfortable, as humility is culturally valued. Compliments may sometimes be interpreted as social politeness rather than something to internalise.

Affirmation can also require sensitivity. Indirect, specific, and context-aware feedback — often focused on actions rather than personal traits — may feel safer and more culturally attuned.

At the same time, this is not static. Generational differences, professional environments, and international cultural exposure all influence how individuals respond. Many Hong Kong professionals today are increasingly comfortable with direct recognition, particularly in international workplaces.

# data[].attributes.body
Hi Stephen, do you happen to have any spare copies of motivational interviewing (don't mind which edition) as I was hoping to buy a copy to get signed, but didn't think about it in advance.

# data[].attributes.body
Ram Dass’s phrase.

What did he mean?

Let love be how you show up. It’s a choice. A practice. A way of being. You decide.

# data[].attributes.body
When you realise no-one needs fixing,

least of all yourself (you only know you),

many things fall into place,

meaning you can come alongside

and guide.

At the right time that is.

# data[].attributes.body
“I Can Do Nothing for You but Work on Myself“

~ Ram Dass

# data[].attributes.body
How addicted are we to wanting life to be a certain way?

The way we want.

Then resisting, and ultimately suffering, when it isn’t.

The extent to which we want something is the extent to which we suffer when it doesn’t turn out that way.

How often does it turn out the way you want?

# data[].attributes.body
What would you most like to get out of the workshop? Feel free to use this space.... and be assureds of a warm welcome! All best Steve Rollnick

# data[].attributes.body
Please use this padlet to post questions or comments or share resources that you find helpful.

I will add the slides, links, helpful websites and also answer questions before, during and after the workshop.

This padlet will remain open for 6 months and you can download a pdf of the board.

Really looking forward to meeting you all in Cardiff. Warmest wishes, Orla