Difficult conversations are a pain for everyone involved.
Sometimes, a difficult conversation is a necessary evil to get through a rough spot in a relationship.
Other times, its a pointless exercise that just leaves both sides feeling worse.
What is my secret agenda or hidden hope for this conversation?
That they will change?)
What concrete examples do I have to share of how this issue has shown up?
Whats my contribution to the situation?
Do I tend to look for problems with this person or about this issue?
Is it already starting to resolve itself?
How long ago did it arise?
Is it a repeat or recurring problem?
Could it become one?
How material is the issue to our relationship or to the job?
How committed am I to being right?
What reasonable, actionable solution can I offer?
Is this the right person to talk to about this issue?
Otherwise, that difficult conversation is probably worth having,so double-check you do it right.
When to Skip a Difficult Conversation| Harvard Business Review
Photo byAkuppa John Wigham.
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