Fix the People Problems No One Talks About
Why We Avoid Difficult Conversations
Many leaders and team members avoid difficult conversations because of fears like conflict, being misunderstood, emotional discomfort, lack of confidence, and wanting to keep the peace. However, this avoidance damages trust, performance, team dynamics, and personal well-being, ultimately hindering growth across individuals and organizations.
How to fix it:
Encourage open communication by creating a safe, respectful environment where people feel heard and valued. Build skills for constructive dialogue through training and coaching, focus on addressing issues early before they escalate, and promote a culture that views difficult conversations as opportunities for growth rather than threats.
Leadership Tip of the Month💡
Before you engage in a tough conversation, ask yourself:
What is my goal for this conversation? (Focus on solutions, not blame.)
How might the other person feel or see this issue? (Build empathy to guide your tone.)
What is a respectful way to open this dialogue? (Consider “I” statements and curiosity.)
Quick Strategy🎯
Coaching Question for Reflection:
"If I showed up fully prepared and compassionate, how might the outcome be different?”
Special Launch: Master Your Story Deck 🚀
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the Master Your Story Deck — a practical tool designed to help leaders and teams uncover the stories we tell ourselves, separate truth from assumption, and communicate with clarity.
👉 Use the deck to:
Spark team discussions that matter.
Reframe negative self-talk into empowering narratives.
Build stronger conversations by aligning facts with perspective.
Master Your Story Deck
Whether you’re preparing for a hard talk or coaching your team, this deck gives you powerful, actionable prompts to master your story. Grab Your Deck Now!
Leadership Events and Highlights 💼
LeadHERship Conference
Nearly 200 women came together for the LeadHERship Conference to network, learn, and encourage one another—a powerful reminder of the strength of women in leadership across our community. Sharon Justice led a session on the power of a multigenerational workforce, showing how embracing diverse perspectives expands our collective impact. Special thanks to the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce for hosting such an inspiring event.
Recruiting Master Class
The Heart for ENC group gathered for a dynamic Recruiting Master Class, where participants explored practical strategies to strengthen recruiting and hiring practices. the session focused on helping organizations attract and retain top talent while reducing hiring challenges.
We partnered with Hyster Yale to explore working genius, trust, coaching, and accountability—key elements that drive high-performing teams. The training went beyond theory, equipping participants with practical tools they can apply right away, while also earning CPE credits.
Need a Strategic Sounding Board? 🤝
👉 Book a 1:1 strategy session and walk in with a plan and peace of mind.
Subscribe to Sharon Justice for newsletter, expert courses, tools, and coaching that help you lead your team with confidence. Reduce frustration, boost team alignment, and grow your business. Get practical strategies and support to become the leader your business and people deserve.
You don’t have to navigate tough conversations alone. The courage to speak up is the first step toward stronger, healthier teams. Avoiding difficult conversations may feel safer, but it comes with a cost. As leaders, the courage to speak up and listen deeply creates trust and drives better results.
What’s your best tip for starting a tough conversation?
Comment below!