Try THIS the Next Time You Have an Uncomfortable Conversation | Simon Sinek

How to Have Uncomfortable Conversations

In this section, the speaker discusses the importance of having uncomfortable conversations as part of being human. They explain that discomfort can arise in professional or personal relationships and provide strategies for effectively navigating these conversations.

Strategies for Having Uncomfortable Conversations

• Discomfort is a natural part of being human and can be caused by tension with another person.

• Avoidance perpetuates discomfort and can harm relationships. It is better to lean into the tension.

• Having an uncomfortable conversation requires skill to prevent it from escalating into an argument or damaging the relationship.

• Start by informing the other person that you need to have an uncomfortable conversation, allowing them to prepare mentally.

• If you lack confidence in your communication skills, express your fear of saying the wrong thing but emphasize the importance of addressing the situation.

• Seek permission from the other person before initiating the conversation, ensuring they are ready for it at that moment or suggesting a more suitable time.

• Use FBI (Feelings, Behavior, Impact) as a framework for structuring the conversation. Express your specific feelings, describe the behavior that caused those feelings, and discuss potential impacts if left unaddressed.

• Be specific about your feelings rather than using generic terms like happy or sad. Avoid generalizations such as "you always" and focus on recent or significant incidents.

• Share your fear that if the behavior continues without being addressed, it may lead to ongoing tension and potential damage to the relationship.

The speaker shares a personal example of having an uncomfortable conversation with a friend, highlighting the positive outcome of opening up and addressing insecurities and fears triggered by each other.