Page 26 - Crucial Conversations

8 CRUCIAL CONVERSATIONS

that either have been avoided or have gone wrong. Other topics
that could easily lead to disaster include

• Ending a relationship
• Talking to a coworker who behaves offensively or makes sugges­
tive comments

• Asking a friend to repay a loan
• Giving the boss feedback about her behavior
• Approaching a boss who is breaking his own safety or quality
policies

• Critiquing a colleague's work
• Asking a roommate to move out

• Resolving custody or visitation issues with an ex-spouse
• Dealing with a rebellious teen
• Talking to a team member who isn't keeping commitments

• Discussing problems with sexual intimacy
• Confronting a loved one about a substance abuse problem

• Talking to a colleague who is hoarding infonnation or resources
• Giving an unfavorable performance review

• Asking in-laws to quit interfering
• Talking to a coworker about a personal hygiene problem

OUR AUDACIOUS CLAIM
Let's say that either you avoid tough issues or when you do bring
them up, you're on your worst behavior. What's the big deal?
How high are the stakes anyway? Do the consequences of a
fouled-up conversation extend beyond the conversation itself?
Should you worry?