How to Untie a Balloon - by Ryan Dunlap (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Pressure management is the key to effective leadership, conflict resolution, and staying composed when life feels like it's stretching you to the limit. In How to Untie a Balloon, former hostage negotiator and founder of Conflictish(R) Ryan Dunlap provides practical strategies for managing stress, mastering conflict management, and building emotional resilience.

#1 New Release in Conflict Management, in Human Resources & Personnel Management, and in Family Conflict Resolution

Dunlap reveals the hidden impact of pressure on our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Using the analogy of a balloon, he demonstrates how unchecked stress, unresolved tension, and mismanaged conflict can lead us to self-destructive behaviors--making us dangerous to ourselves and those around us.

This book offers a practical roadmap to mastering conflict resolution for adults and implementing effective conflict reduction strategies. Through real-world narratives and the F.I.R.S.T. Steps framework, Dunlap simplifies complex conflicts into manageable components: Feelings, Interests, Relationships, Situation, and Toll. These strategies for resolving conflict enhance your self-awareness and empower you with the conflict management techniques needed to lead effectively in high-pressure environments.

Through each step of the F.I.R.S.T. Steps framework, you'll learn how to:

• Regain control over your emotions--so you don't react in ways that cost you respect and influence.


• Pinpoint what really matters--separating surface frustrations from deeper issues driving your stress.


• Strengthen your relationships--so conflict doesn't leave you bitter, burned out, or alone.


• Navigate high-stakes situations with confidence--no more second-guessing or spiraling under pressure.


• Recognize and release built-up tension--effectively managing stress through practical conflict management techniques.

How to Untie a Balloon delivers proven methods for conflict resolution, negotiation, and personal development. Master strategies for managing workplace conflict, maintaining emotional control, and enhancing your ability to resolve conflicts effectively in both personal and professional settings.

If you liked The Anatomy of Peace, Conflict Resolution Playbook, or Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict, then you'll love How to Untie a Balloon.

Review Quotes

"In How to Untie a Balloon, Ryan Dunlap, a former hostage negotiator, unpacks why we struggle under pressure despite knowing what to do. The issue isn't tactics but managing emotions and pressure in critical moments. This book is both inspiring and empowering, giving readers the tools to close the gap between potential and performance. It's a must-read for anyone serious about elevating their communication skills."

-Kwame Christian, Esq., MA, founder and CEO of the American Negotiation Institute, host of Negotiate Anything podcast, and author of Finding Confidence in Conflict

"Ryan knows his stuff. This book will show you exactly how to manage the internal pressure we all face during difficult negotiations."

--Mark Raffan, author of 9 Secrets to Win Deals and Influence Stakeholders

"In a world overwhelmed by disconnection and division, Ryan charts a new path where conflict becomes an opportunity for self-awareness, growth, and healing. As a planetary community, we need Ryan's wisdom now more than ever!"

--Brandon Nappi, DMin, Berkeley Divinity School at Yale

"How to Untie a Balloon shifts your perspective and compels you to reflect on who you are under pressure. Ryan holds up a mirror, challenging you to own your reactions and redefine how you respond when the stakes are high. This is more than a book; it's a wake-up call to lead with intention and integrity, even when the heat is on."

--Glin Bayley, negotiation specialist and author of The Negotiation Playbook: Strategies That Work and Results That Last

"Ryan's work is timely and extremely important in today's current climate of division and misunderstanding. I would highly recommend anyone to not only read his book, but to work with him as well. I guarantee it will be a transformational experience!"

--Rennie Curran, former NFL linebacker, keynote speaker, and author

"Having lived out high-pressure situations with Ryan, these principles are tested and true. It's an authentic work and must-read for those seeking to lead themselves and others more effectively."

--Tra Battle, president of Battle Solutions

"Ryan Dunlap's How to Untie a Balloon is a refreshing and practical take on navigating life's challenges with grace and resilience. Whether you're a mom of three little ones or an executive with a team of twenty, Ryan's insightful strategies and relatable anecdotes empower readers to apply his methods to tackle stress head-on and find clarity in even the most chaotic moments. This is a must-read for anyone seeking balance and calm under pressure."

--Angela Turner-Carruthers, meeting professional and author

"How to Untie a Balloon is a compelling and refreshing take on leadership and conflict management principles. Ryan has pulled back the curtain on what's really behind conflict--our difficulties with managing our own emotions when the stakes escalate. He describes our human tendencies in a kind, non-judgmental, compassionate, and straightforward way while providing actionable steps to help readers make the positive changes they desire within themselves and tools to manage their interactions with others. More importantly, his wisdom, insight, and compassion will make readers feel cared for and empowered as they reflect and grow. This book and Ryan's work is exactly what is needed in today's world. This book ought to be required reading for anyone in a leadership position or with leadership aspirations."

--Susannah Margison, JD, CPC, conflict strategist, coach, and counselor

"Ryan Dunlap has tak