
Negotiate Anything A Masterclass on Workplace Emotions & Crises
Dec 2, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Melody Wilding, an executive coach and author, highlights the challenges faced by 'sensitive strivers' in managing emotional overwhelm and setting boundaries. Leadership expert David Dye shares insights on transforming workplace conflict through courageous conversations, emphasizing the importance of tackling fears of status loss. Meanwhile, Steven VanCohen addresses the loneliness crisis in the workplace, providing practical tips for fostering genuine connections and belonging among teams. Together, they empower listeners to navigate workplace dynamics with emotional intelligence.
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Sensitive Strivers’ Double-Edged Strength
- Melody Wilding defines “sensitive strivers” as high-achieving deep feelers whose strengths can become liabilities without balance.
- About 20% of people have heightened sensory sensitivity that makes them more easily overwhelmed in high-pressure environments.
Match Communication To Processing Style
- Adjust your communication to others’ processing styles: give fewer rapid details to sensitive strivers and allow processing time.
- Sensitive strivers should deliberately adapt to others who prefer direct, bottom-line communication.
Teach Others How To Treat You
- Treat others how you want to be treated by first teaching others how to treat you through boundaries and self-respect.
- Stop repeatedly sacrificing your needs; asserting them trains others to respect you and reduces resentment.








