Who is up for a good conflict? No takers usually. People in general are creatures of comfort, we like air conditioning, comfy seats and to stay in our comfort bubble. Stretching into uncomfortable areas seem counterintuitive.
I believe one of the most critical skills that can be honed, is the ability to confront with tact. The ability to address sensitive, emotional, or high stress situations as they arise, proves to be significant in how you are Percieved, and how effective you can become.
George Bernard Shaw famously stated " the single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place." Miscommunication, or missing communication allows a gap to be formed between two or more parties. When there is an abscense of dialogue individuals fill in their own blanks. Think of it this way, a dialogue writes a book, but when that dialogue is interrupted, or outright missing, each party in the communication channel continues to draft their narrative. Predictably, these narratives differ substantially as they come predominantly from just one perspective.
In essence, each person's story is different, yet they are forced to coexist. It isn't hard to see the opportunity for problems to be derived.
When a conversation is not particularly desired due to the content, emotions or perceived reaction of others, the gap potential widens. It is easy to avoid these conversations, and most people look for any out to avoid it.
Learning the importance of these conversations is vital. Addressing crucial conversations immediately usually reduces tension rather than hurtful. In most cases common ground can be easily reached if the conversation is kept fair and square. What I mean by that is stuck to the facts, and actions. Keep emotions clear for now, stick to what is not debatable, and let the other person know what their action caused, why it was detrimental and how you hope to avoid it in the future.
Addressing an issue upfront eliminated the other person filling in the blanks left by the lack of dialogue. In most cases what I fill in about your actions are much worse than reality.
Learn more about difficult conversations by reaching out to a coach today.
