I am a conflict avoider. And I perfectly know what it produces (not good); therefore along the years I learned (the hard way sometimes) that the best is always to dive into tough talks, instead of avoiding or delaying them.
The truth is that most of your difficult conversations at work (or at home) can be smoothened if you remember some key tips:
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listen, do not talk
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be curious – to discover the upcoming exchanges of views
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expect some positive outcome
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see the long term
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be direct
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remember that (most of the time) there is nothing personal
Considering the energy you involve in this kind of conversations, make it worth it: the target must be an improved relationship, at last.