This technique is particularly suited to dealing with negativity. Once you detect a negative word or statement, you need only place a Reverso to extract a preferable positive one. It is then a lot easier to be constructive. Variants include Simple Reverso, Double Reverso and Open Reverso, which is the most neutral and usually the most destabilizing of the variants. A common follow-up move to a Reverso is an S.O.S. (e.g. “What would you suggest?”)

Open Reverso leaves the space open for your partner to insert their own positive direction. If they use a double negative, you can follow up with Ki-no Nagare:

Partner: “You’ve got to be the most naïve person I know!”

Practitioner: “And you’d feel better if I was…?”

Partner: “Not naive!”

Practitioner: “Tell me more about what that would look like…”

It is hard for your partner to avoid bringing out a positive word that you can then use to orient the exchange positively. Know anyone who complains a lot? Next time you find yourself with someone persisting in negativity, ask them “What is/was missing?” – it is surprisingly effective.

Examples of the Technique “Open Reverso“

Intention: Ascertain a preferred positive direction

What would you prefer?

What would be a better direction then?

What’s missing/needed?

What would you like to see more of?

So instead of that, more…?

And you’d be more aligned with what?

So, what would be more desirable/interesting/beneficial for you?

What would make you feel more comfortable?