What To Say When Someone Is Holding Back?

Leaders get curious when giving or receiving feedback, sharing bad news, dealing with 🔥 conflict or engaging in a difficult conversation about any hard topic. 


Most people come into 'difficult conversations' (and conflict resolution, etc)' with one agenda.


＃1 - To persuade the other party ---Who's right? Me...Who's wrong? Them. Why are they doing that? [negative assumptions expanded]


When everyone enters a conversation with this #1 agenda, what happens? Chaos, toxic communication, damaged relationships, no trust, BiG obstacles to overcome and often 'no deal' = poor outcomes. ❌


I grew up with an outdated view: Don't show curiosity = weak, and show no vulnerability = weak. I have learned and made changes since then.


Many professionals still believe 'we're 'logical; we don't discuss or acknowledge feelings = weak. I'll use the ONE agenda' ⬆️ when having hard conversations or resolving conflict.


But they don't realise that all difficult conversations are uncomfortable (and conflict resolution, too) because of underlying strong emotions - that we can't leave at the door and pretend don't exist. 


Though often dismissed, effectively managing thinking and emotions is critical to achieving a satisfying process and outcome.


Remember, to be more successful in having hard conversations and conflict resolution, get more curious and ask yourself and others, "What am I/you thinking and not saying?"


Be aware of your thoughts and beliefs as they affect your emotions, impacting your communication and how you show up. 


People may not always respond to your curiosity, but you will often get a candid answer that builds trust and rapport, showing you want a real conversation". 


Curiosity makes hard conversations (and conflict resolution) easier. 


No one can successfully navigate difficult conversations without curiosity, which requires courage. 


In reality, courage is one of the most powerful and undervalued traits in successful leaders🚀 


Don't let fear hold you back. A life (in all areas) characterised by unwavering courage is worth fighting for. 

 
Ready to build your unstoppable courage so you can improve the quality of your life and leadership? 
 

Then book your 15 minute application call to work with me for coaching or consulting (Zoom call) or contact me for mediation or workplace dispute resolution.