Earlier this year, billionaire financier Jay Bloom was invited to join OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush (and a small group of guests) on a journey to visit the Titanic wreckage at the bottom of the ocean. After learning of the invitation, Jay’s son Sean Bloom, a successful entrepreneur like his father, did some quick research and uncovered (what he considered to be) some fairly alarming red flags. He urged his father to reconsider taking the trip. Ultimately, Jay took his son’s advice and decided to decline the invitation, a decision that likely saved his life.
Jay and Sean Bloom joined Negotiate Anything to share their near encounter with the now infamous submersible while explaining the most difficult conversations that ultimately contributed to their final decision. Their experience highlights the significance of intuition, boundary-setting and maintaining empathy when faced with challenging scenarios.
The Role of Fear and Intuition in Decision-Making
One of the most critical aspects of the Blooms’ harrowing experience was the role fear and intuition played in their decision-making process. Despite being offered an opportunity to explore the depths of the ocean and witness the wreckage of the Titanic, Jay and Sean trusted their instincts and declined the invitation.
It’s important to remember that fear can serve as a protective mechanism. While we shouldn’t be ruled by fear, we don’t need to dismiss it altogether. Take some time to listen to your intuition and assess how reasonable your fears are in this scenario.
Their story is also a good reminder that giving into pressure and bullying is never the solution. It may feel uncomfortable in the moment, but you will benefit most in the long run.
Sometimes no is the right answer and boundaries need to be set. In this case, their intuition proved to be their saving grace.
The Power of Curiosity, Asking the Right Questions, and Knowing Non-Negotiables
Curiosity, coupled with the ability to ask the right questions, can be instrumental in difficult conversations. The Blooms’ skepticism and curiosity about the safety measures surrounding the OceanGate Submarine allowed them to gather vital information. This demonstrates the power of inquiry in separating factual information from persuasive influence.
Stockton’s passion and confidence gave him a significant amount of influence. That said, because he was unable to provide factual information to address the Blooms’ safety concerns, his persuasive efforts failed.
Additionally, Jay knew his non-negotiable: safety. No amount of price haggling or pressure was going to take priority over his well-being. When the answers he was getting didn’t support that value, he knew he could confidently say no.
Maintaining Empathy and Respect in Difficult Conversations
While the Blooms’ experience emphasizes the significance of asserting oneself, it also highlights the importance of maintaining empathy and respect during difficult conversations. Difficult conversations can often be emotionally charged, leading to conflicts and breakdowns in communication. However, approaching these discussions with empathy and respect fosters understanding and paves the way for constructive dialogue.
Conversations like these can lead to natural frustrations on both sides. Fortunately, Jay and Sean chose not to take any communication personally. They understood Stockton’s passion and perspective but chose to prioritize their safety. As a result, even though no agreement was made, respect was maintained throughout the conversation.
Learning and Growth Through Difficult Conversations
Difficult conversations have the potential to facilitate personal growth and learning. Jay and Sean’s experience with the OceanGate Submarine presented them with a significant challenge, but it also offered an opportunity for self-reflection and growth. By engaging in open dialogue and facing their fears head-on, they not only saved themselves from a potentially dangerous situation but also gained a deeper understanding of their own values and boundaries.
Read the full article here
