If you struggle to have difficult conversations then you aren’t alone. According to Rasmus Hougaard, founder and CEO of global research, leadership development and consulting firm, Potential Project, only one in 100 of us are naturally wired to be able to give difficult feedback the right way, instinctively. 

“You really have to step up if you want to lead people and learn how to do the hard things. Because it's the most compassionate and kind thing you can do. Everything else is indecent, period.”

Rasmus and the team at Potential Project have spent the last three years undertaking a huge research project to find out just how CEOs and leaders do hard stuff with humanity. 

In this episode, Rasmus shares why he learned the art of mindfulness in Buddhist monasteries not just as a way of driving employee wellness, but actually driving leadership behaviours. He also explains why, if we care deeply about people, it's on us to be direct and to give them the feedback they need to grow to be the best version of themselves that they can be. 

To find out more about the four behaviours Rasmus and the team uncovered, to create more trust, psychological safety, and improve performance in your individual employees, your teams, and the culture, download and listen to this episode. 

Book recommendations

The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying - Sogyal Rinpoche

Good to Great - Jim Collins

On today’s podcast:

• Why mindfulness is your secret business weapon
• The distinction between empathy and compassion
• Why women are better leaders
• The four behaviours that help do hard things humanely 

Links:

• Book: Compassionate Leadership
• Twitter: @RasmusTPP
• Linkedin: Rasmus Hougaard
• Website: Compassionate Leadership, Potential Project