On Tough Conversations

Some difficult conversations feel that way only because our self-trust doesn’t reach far enough to include them. Surprisingly, one of these conversation starters may allow a difficult conversation to flow more easily. 1) The simplest conversation we rarely have: “Thank you.” 2) The most powerful conversation we rarely have: “I love you.” 3) The most freeing conversation we rarely have: “No, thank you.” 4) The highest potential conversation we rarely have: “I need your help.” 5) The most courageous conversation we rarely have: “I’m afraid.” 6) A non-judgmental opening to an emotionally-charged conversation: “Things just aren’t working for me.” 7) A powerfully positive opening to any emotion or conflict-laden conversation: “Help me understand.”