Why do We Find Some Conversations Difficult?
Simona Frumen 
Why do We Find Some Conversations Difficult?
✳ Reason No1: we are discussing something important to us and we don't want to give it up
When you engage in conversations about topics that are meaningful for you, it reflects your values and priorities. Much is at stake, and understandably, you don't want to jeopardise or sacrifice something so precious.
Conversations about trivial matters are typically not deemed difficult or challenging.
Consider these examples of important conversations:
- A team leader striving to motivate their team — how can they lead this conversation to achieve their crucial goal?
- An employee planning to resign diplomatically, maintaining a good relationship with their soon-to-be-ex-employer — how can they steer this conversation to attain their essential objective?
✳ Reason No2: You don't have full control over this important conversation.
In addition to not knowing how the other party will respond, several uncertainties surround your actions:
- How to address the topic,
- How to set the scene,
- Timing of the conversation,
- How to initiate it,
- How to respond to various scenarios,
- When to conclude the conversation,
- Managing emotions or unexpected reactions, and more.
Considering this mix of factors—tackling important topics, dealing with unpredictability, and having minimal influence—it's normal to feel uneasy.
Stay tuned for my next post, where I'll delve deeper into the topic of fear and provide strategies to overcome it in the context of having difficult conversations.
Now back to you :)
Take a moment to reflect on a challenging conversation you've had or anticipate having soon. Consider what made/makes it so challenging for you? Which outcomes are particularly precious to you?
If you'd like my assistance in preparing for your challenging conversation so you are confident and ready, feel free to send me a direct message (DM).