Uncomfortable Conversations

“I believe that success can be measured in the number of uncomfortable conversations you’re willing to have.” – Timothy Ferriss

I’d have to agree with Tim Ferriss. My definition of love is “extending yourself to invest in someone’s highest good” and uncomfortable conversations are just the type of extension that demand a big investment; one that a small percentage of people are willing to make.

The unsuccessful managers is caught up with his email. He attends the meetings he is required to attend. His reports are all completed. What’s the one activity he has left undone? Uncomfortable conversations.

• He hasn’t got around to taking to his boss about how her mass email made employees feel de-valued.
• He hasn’t talked to the marketing manager about the way he shoots down others’ ideas in meetings.
• He hasn’t dealt with the under-performer: the one who is rocking the numbers but trashing his team-mates.

The risk and discomfort involved can be paralyzing. Today (and most every day) I’m out helping people extend themselves to become skillful in those types of conversations. It’s a large privilege to help people figure out how to Love at Work.

About the Author

Brady Wilson

Brady Wilson is an author and expert on how conversation affects organizational energy to create dynamic results. He has been called upon internationally by Fortune 500 clients to help them use a "conversational operating system" to overcome insurmountable challenges and achieve unprecedented results.