Curiosity killed the cat. Did it though? When we work with people within our organisations, sometimes we forget they are also humans, with squishy insides and their own insecurities, fears and concerns. We see their role, not the person. It's easy to get defensive if you feel their point of view is questioning your own... but we have an antidote for you... STAY CURIOUS! This is the third principle of how to have better difficult conversations—Exploration over Defensiveness. Every conversation...

The Police said it best... Sending out an S.O.SSending out an S.O.SSending out an S.O.S Obviously they were talking about; SolidarityOverSelf-righteousness This is the second principle of how to have better difficult conversations. In difficult conversations, what would it mean to focus on solidarity rather than proving you’re right? Co-operation comes from recognising what unites you, not what divides you. Before the conversation, reflect on shared goals to ensure you approach it from a...

This is the first principle of having - better - difficult conversations. Humans make assumptions; it's a short cut to meaning making. And, they will inevitably pop up in difficult conversations, but... You can choose to make them work for you rather than against you. Start by assuming there’s information you don’t have yet or perspectives you haven’t considered. This shift keeps conversations open and productive, rather than defensive or confrontational. ✅ For instance, if a team member...