The High Performance Podcast How to Handle Difficult Conversations
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Jul 11, 2025 Confronting tough conversations is key to personal and professional growth. The hosts discuss strategies like deep listening and effective questioning to enhance communication. With insights from notable guests, they share how to deliver feedback clearly and empathetically. The importance of clarity and trust in difficult discussions is emphasized, along with the balance of respect in coaching dynamics. By reframing criticism and shifting to curiosity, listeners gain practical tools to foster stronger connections and navigate challenging dialogues.
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Avoiding Hard Talks Increases Stress
- Avoiding difficult conversations actually increases stress and anxiety.
- Leaning into them helps improve relationships and personal growth.
How Asking Questions Turns Tough Talks into True Conversations
Master difficult conversations by focusing on asking more questions and demonstrating you are listening. Charles Duhigg advises starting with deep questions like, "What do you make of this?" or "What are you feeling right now?" to understand the other person's perspective.
Show you are truly engaged by looping back what you heard and asking follow-up questions such as, "Did I get that right?" or "What do you think about that?" This approach encourages reciprocity, leading others to listen to you in return and ultimately turning a tough talk into a meaningful conversation.
This method is both practical and effective, helping to avoid defensiveness and build trust during emotional discussions.
Ask and Listen Deeply
- Ask deep questions and listen carefully by repeating or probing further.
- This builds trust and encourages open, reciprocal conversation.
