Why Should We Avoid Difficult Conversations?

Whether as a leader in your profession, or in your personal life, avoiding difficult conversations sows seeds of trouble . The more we hold off on having an important but difficult conversation, the greater the strain we put into that relationship. Our ability to have difficult conversations is an important skill.

Why do we avoid having difficult conversations?

The top reasons we tend to avoid conflict is because we want to feel “safe” and make sure we are liked and supported by others, or we care about others and the way they feel, or we are tired of explaining ourselves. ... Difficult conversations don’t have to become an argument or end in discord .

Why do we avoid difficult conversations at work?

We avoid difficult conversations because of the awkwardness and uncomfortable nature of the situation . However, if you’re intentional about setting the right tone, the chances of a positive outcome increase. The difficult conversation gets easier. Preface your meeting or conversation with a positive tone.

Why do we avoid conversations?

We fear confrontation

So many of us are afraid of how someone will react to a challenging conversation. So, we worry about confronting someone about something we know we need to talk to them about. This is made even harder if that person is in a dominant position to us.

How do you avoid difficult conversations?

1. Don’t assume your viewpoint is obvious. ...
2. Don’t exaggerate. ...
3. Don’t tell others what they should do. ...
4. Don’t blame others for your feelings. ...
5. Don’t challenge someone’s character or integrity. ...
6. Don’t say “It’s not personal”

How do you avoid conversations?

1. Calmly, but briskly walk away. ...
2. Do not make eye contact. ...
3. If you are seen by the person, a smile and a small nod may allow you to continue on your way. ...
4. Absorb yourself in some work, a phone call, or something that makes you seem far too busy to talk.

Why do people avoid uncomfortable conversations?

We avoid difficult conversations because of the awkwardness and uncomfortable nature of the situation . However, if you’re intentional about setting the right tone, the chances of a positive outcome increase. The difficult conversation gets easier.

How do you deal with uncomfortable conversations?

1. Listen up. ...
2. Be clear about how you feel and what you want. ...
3. Look at the issue from their perspective. ...
4. If things aren’t going to plan, take a break. ...
5. Agree to disagree. ...
6. Look after yourself.

How do I have a serious conversation?

1. Realize that such conversations are necessary. ...
2. Start the conversation the right way. ...
3. Choose the right time. ...
4. Be clear about what you’re saying. ...
5. Approach the conversation with a common goal in mind. ...
6. Listen and empathize. ...
7. Respect them.

How do you challenge a conversation?

So make sure you stay on track, structure the conversation around the issue, and be ready for any reactions you might provoke. Listen and respond, don’t react. Listen carefully and objectively to the person you are challenging and make sure to control your emotions.

How do you politely avoid someone?

1. Make up an elaborate excuse. ...
2. Mute them. ...
3. Get on a pretend phone call. ...
4. Look at your phone, pretend you got an important message, and walk away from the situation. ...
5. Ghost. ...
6. “Work is just so crazy busy right now, sorry!” ...
7. Just say “no.” ...
8. Reschedule.

How can I stop small talk?

1. Have some ‘deep’ conversation starters on hand. ...
2. Ask questions about topics the other person is interested in. ...
3. Find out what makes the other person special. ...
4. Avoid discussing the weather. ...
5. Assume the other person has deep thoughts. ...
6. Don’t push people to see your perspective.

Why do people ignore situations?

Here are some examples of breaking rapport that can make people ignore you: Talking much more or much less than others . Being way too high or low energy . Talking about stuff others aren’ t interested in.

How do you recover from awkward conversations?

If a conversation has become awkward, consider doing something to lighten the mood . You can do this by telling a funny joke or story, poking fun at yourself, or finding the humor in your current situation. Keeping the mood light will help to break the ice and move the conversation forward.

How do you mentally prepare for a difficult conversation?

1. Begin from a place of curiosity and respect. Stop worrying about being liked. ...
2. Focus on what you hear, not what you say. You don’t actually need to talk that much during a difficult conversation. ...
3. Be direct. ...
4. Don’t put it off. ...
5. Expect a positive outcome.

How do you talk to someone who is hard to talk to?

1. It’s about them. ...
2. Can you hear me? ...
3. Make yourself heard, without advice. ...
4. Be a power listener. ...
5. Let go of control. ...
6. Ninjas need boundaries, too. ...
7. Lasting love is about compatibility. ...
8. Use your freedom of speech.