I try to avoid conflict... most of the time.

It creates tension that I usually find counter-productive.

But what if this tension is actually the catalyst for growth?

Have I been missing out?

Our guest Tash Willcocks thinks so.

She's a self-proclaimed former conflict avoider who now champions the idea of "running towards the conflict" to unlock its potential for positive change.

Yes, conflict creates a tension that most of us instinctively shy away from.

But according to Tash, this tension can foster collaboration and drive personal growth when channeled in the right ways.

There's just one small problem.

Conflict in the workplace often occurs when people give (or receive) feedback. But most of us aren't really great at this.

So, instead of using feedback as a constructive opportunity, things either spiral out of control, or people conceal the key message out of politeness.

In both cases, it's a missed opportunity.

The art is to find that sweet spot between kindness and clarity, where we can give and receive feedback in a way that feels supportive and helps us grow.

I have to say, Tash's journey from conflict avoidance to embracing tension is quite inspiring.

So, if you want to turn those tough conversations into moments where you learn and grow the most, this episode has you covered.

Tash made me think: What is the best feedback I've received, from whom, and what made it so powerful? What would be your answer...

Enjoy the episode, and keep making a positive impact!

~ Marc

--- [ 1. GUIDE ] ---

00:00 Welcome to episode 223

04:00 Embracing creative conflict

05:45 What sparked her interest in this topic

07:00 Take hard conversations

10:30 Run towards the conflict

13:00 Teaching conflict

16:00 Opening up wounds

19:00 Radical candor

23:30 Avoiding hard talks

21430 Overcoming avoidance

27:00 Feedback and timing

30:00 Giving & receiving feedback

32:30 People solve problems

35:00 Beyond reading design books

38:00 Starving artist mindset

39:15 Takeaways so far

43:30 Drama triangle vs Empowerment triangle

47:00 Creating self-awareness while drawing

49:30 Drawing as journaling

51:00 Ruthlessly curious

53:00 Piece of advice

54:45 Question to ponder

55:00 Resources

--- [ 2. LINKS ] ---

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashwillcocks/
• https://www.instagram.com/tashwillcocks
• https://bsky.app/profile/tashwillcocks.bsky.social

Resources:

• Radical Candor (Book)
• Radical Candor (Podcast)
• Turn the Ship around - Book
• Ladder of leadership 
• MindSpring Presents: "Greatness" by David Marquet
• Johari Window
• Giving and receiving feedback - cards
• Susan Wheelan Team Development
• Drama and Empowerment Triangle
• Scott Berkun - Why Design is hard

--- [ 3. CIRCLE ] ---

Join our private community for in-house service design professionals.

⁠https://servicedesignshow.com/circle