In this episode, I dive deep into the art of having difficult conversations at work and in life. I share why these conversations are so challenging, the common patterns that hold us back (like perfectionism, people-pleasing, and over-functioning), and how to shift from unconscious, reactive responses to a more conscious, relationship-focused approach.

Chapters:

• 07:34 — Unconscious Productivity Patterns

• 15:19 — Conscious Productivity Approach

• 16:06 — Five Steps for Navigating Difficult Conversations

• 22:28 — Special Advice for Leaders

5 Steps for Navigating Difficult Conversations:

1. Clarify Your Intention: Know why you're having the conversation and what you hope to achieve.

2. Listen with Genuine Curiosity: Be open to the other person's perspective and ask thoughtful questions.

3. Express Your Perspective Clearly: Be direct but respectful, focusing on behaviors and impact, not character.

4. Align on Solutions: Collaborate to find practical ways forward and clarify expectations.

5. Reinforce the Relationship: End by affirming your commitment to working together and building trust.

Take the Conscious Productivity Quiz!

• Discover your personal productivity profile | DISCOVER MORE

• Are you a people leader at work? You can also take the LEADER version of the quiz to discover how you create the conditions for conscious productivity at work | TAKE LEADER QUIZ

Get Stephanie's Book:

• The Big Scale Back: Success and Balance By Your Own Design | GET YOUR COPY HERE

Work with Stephanie:

• 1x1 Coaching | LEARN MORE

• Workplace + Team Programs | LEARN MORE

• Organizational Culture | LEARN MORE

Connect with Stephanie:

• Instagram | @agencytochange

• Website | agencytochange.com

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