Courageous Conversations
Sharp insight. Practical action. Every time.
Most people avoid tough conversations.
We create excuses. Be it that we tell ourselves “It’s not worth it,” or “I don’t want to make things worse,” or “It will sort itself out.”
But avoidance doesn’t keep the peace — it just delays the problem. Often compounding the negative impact.
Every unresolved tension quietly undermines trust, performance, and morale.
In my work with teams, the most respected leaders aren’t the loudest or the most polished — they’re the ones willing to have the hard conversations, early and honestly. It is a hallmark of high performance teams. They feel safe and don’t avoid conflict.
But here’s the key:
Courageous doesn’t mean combative.
A great conversation is one that seeks to understand first.
Start with this mindset: “I want to make this work — for both of us.”
Then follow three simple steps:
State the issue clearly — without blame or assumptions.
Ask for their perspective — and genuinely listen.
Agree on a way forward — one small step you can both act on.
You don’t need a script. You need sincerity. Attack the problem, not the person.
So, here’s your challenge:
What conversation have you been avoiding?
Don’t wait for the “perfect time.”
Make it simple. Make it honest.
Then watch what shifts.
