Validate, Validate, Validate
Validation brings people closer through empathy and understanding. You do not have to agree with another person or their behaviors to be able to validate them though. Only find the kernel of truth to validate the valid, not the invalid. Look for what emotion was brought up in the other person, what thoughts were conjured, what opinions were had, and listen with an open empathic ear. Validate their experience and let the other person know that whatever their experience is, there is someunderstandability (once again, even if it is not acceptable), before going toward any type of change. Once someone feels validated and understood, they are then more open and willing to listen to any feedback you have to offer.