Happy July!
To support you in being F.I.R.S.T. (Future-Ready. Innovative. Relevant. Strategic. Trusted.), here’s 1 tip and 1 quote.
The F.I.R.S.T. Tip
Sometimes, we find it easier to sweep uncomfortable feelings and tensions under the carpet
We tell ourselves it’s not the right time, or that maybe things will blow over. But unspoken frustrations, unresolved tension, and withheld feedback don’t just disappear. They linger… quietly affecting our performance, relationships, and overall happiness.
The truth is, poor conversations at home can follow us to work. And stress at work can cloud how we show up in our personal lives. The impact is real and often underestimated.
But what if we faced the discomfort?
What if we leaned into the conversations we’ve been avoiding, with honesty and care?
Whether it’s clearing the air with a colleague, giving a teammate constructive feedback, or having a heartfelt conversation with someone close to us, one conversation can shift everything.
It can ease long-standing tension.
Clarify misunderstood intentions.
Strengthen trust.
And most importantly, it can give you peace of mind.
The good news? You don’t need a title or years of experience to have these conversations. You just need the courage to start and a few practical strategies to make them easier.
1. Be Curious, Not Critical
When something doesn’t sit right, resist the urge to assume. Ask:
“Can you help me understand how you see this?”
This shows respect and openness, and often defuses tension before it grows.
2. Speak Up Thoughtfully
Honesty doesn’t have to be hurtful. Try saying:
“This isn’t easy for me to bring up, but I value our relationship and think it’s worth discussing.”
Naming the discomfort builds connection and lowers defensiveness.
3. Don’t Wait for the ‘Perfect’ Moment
There rarely is one. Delaying tough conversations often makes the issue feel heavier. Choose to address things early—before silence turns into stress.
Example:
A friend keeps cancelling plans, leaving you feeling unimportant. Instead of brushing it off, say:
“I’ve noticed we’ve missed connecting a few times lately. Can we talk about it?”
This kind of honest curiosity can deepen relationships rather than strain them.
When you start having these conversations, however small, you’ll begin to feel the shift.
Because these aren’t just conversations.
They’re turning points.
And they don’t just change how we work.
They change how we live.
So ask yourself:
What’s one conversation you’ve been putting off… and what might change if you had it today?
The F.I.R.S.T. Quote
