Difficult conversations are those where there are strong emotional reactions involved. They require you to engage in active listening, rather than just waiting for someone else to speak. You must pay attention to what is being said without interrupting while trying to understand how it affects the person speaking. This requires patience and empathy.

There are different types of difficult conversations. Some are easier than others. An example of an easy conversation is one where both parties agree on the outcome. In contrast, a crucial conversation is defined as one between two people who disagree on something important. Such discussions can become heated and involve intense feelings. Crucial conversations often occur when people feel threatened.

If you want to lead effectively, you have to be able to handle tough situations when they arise. This means being able to listen without judging, empathize without agreeing, and resolve conflicts without blaming. These skills will serve you well in any situation, but especially in leadership roles where you may find yourself dealing with conflict.