Difficult conversations are challenging by definition.

That’s why most people avoid them. Sometimes it’s people-pleasing. Sometimes it’s a lack of confidence. But more often than not, the avoidance makes the situation worse.

Recently, I spent time with a young, emerging physical therapist at a fast-growing clinic. Her technical skills are on a clear path toward mastery. Her communication skills are on a very different track.

On multiple visits, she voiced frustration with a front desk team member. During my last visit, she said, “I struggle to communicate expectations, and when they aren’t met, it leads to disappointment and resentment.”

She wasn’t just venting. She was asking for help.

So I asked, “Would you mind if I shared a lesson we teach in Accelerate Leadership, one I learned from Alex Hormozi?”

She replied, “Please. I’m at my wits’ end.”

I said, “Confronting someone in the short term always beats resenting someone in the long term for things left unsaid.”

That’s the shift. Difficult conversations don’t start with being right. They start with a desire to avoid resentment. Because resentment sets you up for suffering.

That doesn’t make the conversation easy. But it does change it from something you could do into something you must do.

So don’t come in from the top rope with judgment. Step into the ring with curiosity and a heart for improving the situation.

Which leads to a simple question: Who do you need to have a difficult conversation with?

P.S. The Optimistic Outlook is a Podcast! Leaving a rating or review wherever you listen to podcasts would mean a lot.