Navigating Tough Conversations: Jon Gordon & The Elephant in the Room
I am reading Jon Gordon’s latest book, Difficult Conversations Don’t Have to Be Difficult. This book has been very insightful and is a must for anyone in a leadership role—whether you're a manager, coach, teacher, or team leader. It's also incredibly valuable for families striving to communicate more effectively.
As a basketball coach, I've seen firsthand how critical it is to equip our players with the skills to navigate challenging conversations. The ability to handle these discussions with confidence and empathy is beneficial not only on the court but also in every aspect of life.
One practical approach to easing the tension in tough conversations is incorporating a technique from Gordon’s book. We start by creating a safe and open environment where everyone feels heard. This involves active listening, positive framing, empathy, and understanding.
Check out this video, where I discuss how I start tough conversations with my team.