Successfully Navigating Difficult Conversations Requires Emotional Intelligence

Being “good” at having difficult conversations isn’t just about being savvy with your words. It isn’t just a performance skill. It is an ability rooted in emotional intelligence.

People who excel at having difficult conversations are high in emotional intelligence - they are aware of their internal experiences, they are able to effectively manage their emotions and their responses, they are attuned to the experience of others in the moment, and to how their own words and actions impact others.

I recently participated in a discussion with legal educators on the topic of difficult conversations and the important work they are doing in the classroom to address navigating these conversations.

The ability to engage meaningfully in difficult conversations is essential, especially In today’s world.  If the thought of difficult conversations makes your heart race or leads you to stick your head in the sand, what are you going to do about it?