How to Overcome the Fear of Difficult Conversations

Instead of giving them growth feedback or being honest about my feelings, I would say things to myself like, "They do such a great job at everything else. I can ignore this one thing," or, "They might have a lot going on. I should give them the benefit of the doubt." And even, "If I just wait it out, the issue will probably resolve itself."

I thought my avoidance was driven by empathy and care, but most often, it was fear in disguise. The truth was that I was afraid of hurting my team.

It took me years to understand that avoiding hard conversations was the most hurtful thing I could do to the people I was trying to protect. I was standing in the way of their growth and allowing my own resentment to build and negatively affect our relationship.

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