The Conversation I Almost Didn’t Have
There was a time — not so long ago — when I kept putting off a conversation.
It wasn’t dramatic. No argument, no major conflict.
Just tension. Subtle, unspoken, lingering.
You know the kind.
That quiet disconnect with someone you work closely with.
When you smile, but something feels off.
When a comment lands a bit too sharply — and you pretend it didn’t.
I told myself:
“It’s not worth bringing up.”
“I don’t want to make things awkward.”
“Maybe I’m overreacting.”
But the truth is — I wasn’t overreacting.
I was avoiding.
Why do we do this?
As leaders, we’re often told to be strong, composed, strategic.
But not always real.
And certainly not vulnerable.
So we wait.
We soften our words.
We stay polite — and silently uncomfortable.
But avoidance doesn’t protect relationships.
It erodes them.
What changed?
Eventually, I had the conversation I was dreading.
It was uncomfortable. I was nervous. But I prepared. I got clear on what mattered. And I led with honesty and care.
And what happened?
Relief.
Understanding.
And a stronger connection than before.
Not because I was perfectly eloquent.
But because I was willing to show up — as myself.
What about you?
What conversation are you putting off?
What’s not being said in your team, your leadership, your life?
And what would be possible if you had the courage to face it?
In my L.E.A.D.E.R.S.H.I.P. Programme, this is one of the most powerful turning points we explore — how to navigate difficult conversations and conflict with clarity, compassion, and confidence.
Because leadership isn’t about avoiding the uncomfortable — it’s about walking through it, with intention.
The next programme begins on the 22nd September, and this is one of the conversations we’ll have — together.
It would be lovely to see you there, you won't be disappointed.
Warmly
Johanna