Having Honest Conversations When It's Hard

Open and honest conversations can be hard.

What do you say? How do you say it? Where do you start? How will the other person react?

Having open and honest conversations is not always easy!

But having tough conversations honestly can transform our relationships.

What's the opposite of being honest? Telling a lie.

According to the American Psychological Association, telling the truth can improve our mental and physical health.

Honest conversations create a safe space for us to be vulnerable.

Brene Brown says it best:

"Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome. Vulnerability is not weakness; it's our greatest measure of courage."

Consider this.

Someone on your team is not submitting their work on time. You could start the conversation by telling them that they aren't pulling their weight. Or, you could start by asking them about their current workload.

Which of these options gives space for your colleague to be vulnerable?

The second option gives a judgement-free opening for them to open up and share honestly.

Just like we appreciate when others are honest with us, others will respect us for telling them the truth - even when it's hard.

Put yourself in their shoes.

Would you rather have someone like you based on a lie? Or respect you for telling the truth?

Is there a conversation you've been avoiding?

Consider these benefits, and make a plan to have that honest talk.