WEEKLY MOTIVATION: Handling Tough Conversations

Majority of us do not want conflicts may it be personal or work related.

According to a survey, more than 80% of workers run away from tough conversations. (VitalSmarts)

These conversations are most of the time critical. It can be a decisive matter, something that needs to be addressed for everyone’s benefit, but most of the time we just avoid it and keep concerns to ourselves. The result: we dwell on it, we stress over it, sometimes we cannot even have a good night sleep because of it.

So what should we do? How do we tame tough conversations?

1. Shift your perspective

Most of the time we think: “Baka magalit siya” or “Baka masaktan ko siya”. We like to conclude on the negative outcomes ahead.

Always keep in mind that telling the truth is the most caring choice to make. We’ll never know the response of the other person but it will be worth it.

2. Be straightforward but gentle

Say what needs to be said, get down to the details but do it in a pleasant manner. Don’t let your emotions get the best of you. You want to preserve your relationships moving forward.

3. Don’t rush responses

Sometimes, these conversations can be a tough pill to swallow. Be considerate to give the other person time to realize things. Pause if necessary and allow him/her to gather thoughts to get the most accurate response.

4. Move forward together

Don’t just impose your side. Encourage the other person to speak up and provide suggestions. Be open to work together to develop a resolution that’s for the good of everyone.

Set yourself up to tackle tough conversations more comfortably. It takes time to master but these difficult moments cannot be avoided so we have to deal with it one at a time. Your peace of mind is on the other side.

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