My business partner, Nic recently sent me a copy of Crucial Conversations. After reading only the first few chapters I think this book will be tough to forget. It is based on the premise that when our conversations have the most at stake (holding an unfavorable position, handling conflict with a co-worker, etc) we have the tendency to conduct ourselves the poorest.
I can think of several occasions where a well-intentioned dialogue went wrong. Whether trying to bring up a sensitive subject with my fiancee, Lauren or working through a tough issue with a client; things start out ok but at some point emotions run high. I’ve found myself at that proverbial crossroads; forced to make a choice to keep my composure or abandon the original purpose of the discussion in favor of self-preservation.
Thankfully, the tools presented in this book can make it possible to be our best under fire or heavy scrutiny. Having read just the opening chapters, I’ve already “caught” myself heading down a path I would typically come back to regret.
What’s great about this book is that the implications it has on our success are widespread. It can help strengthen and build all types of relationships: personal or professional or otherwise. Do you have a good read to recommend? Let me hear about it.
Mike
