SWYP™ Next to Turn Complaints Into Proposals

Conflicts escalate quickly—but agreement is possible when you know what to say next. This book introduces the So, What’s Your Proposal (SWYP) technique, a simple three-step communication method designed to shift emotionally charged conversations into productive problem-solving in as little as 30 seconds. Used by professionals and everyday individuals alike, SWYP offers a practical approach to resolving high-conflict situations in work, family, and community settings.

This Second Edition draws on more than a decade of real-world application and feedback from hundreds of practitioners who have implemented the method successfully. A new Introduction explains how SWYP integrates with the internationally taught CARS Conflict Resolution Method (The CARS Method®). Two new chapters expand the book’s scope: one provides step-by-step guidance for leading negotiations and mediations in high-conflict environments, emphasizing the critical transition from emotional blame to rational solution-building; the other presents proven strategies for negotiating with bullies—an increasingly common challenge in today’s heightened conflict climate.

Minor updates throughout reflect the author’s continuing work as a lawyer, mediator, and conflict resolution trainer, while preserving the core strength of the book: a simple, highly effective process that equips readers to resolve conflict anytime, anywhere.

You will stay calm and confident, while earning the respect of those around you – even those who want to blame you!

The Author

BILL EDDY, LCSW, ESQ. is a globally recognized thought leader on high-conflict behavior and the co-founder and Innovation Director of the High Conflict Institute. A pioneer in the development of High Conflict Personality Theory (HCP), he has transformed the fields of law, mental health, and dispute resolution with practical frameworks for managing individuals with high-conflict traits. Bill has over four decades of professional experience as a family law attorney, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and senior mediator, including 15 years as Senior Family Mediator at the National Conflict Resolution Center. He has served on the faculty of the renowned Straus Institute for Dispute Resolution at Pepperdine University School of Law and held an academic appointment at the University of Newcastle Law School in Australia. An internationally sought-after keynote speaker and trainer, Bill has presented in over 30 U.S. states and 10 countries. He is the co-host with Megan Hunter of the popular podcast, It's All Your Fault, author of more than twenty books and writes a widely read blog on Psychology Today with over five million views.

Book Details

Publisher: Unhooked Books
Publication Date:  October 6, 2026
Pages:
Binding:  Paperback
ISBN:  9781950057504
Author:  Bill Eddy, LCSW, Esq.