Being nice and being clear aren’t always the same thing.
Why this matters → (30 sec read)
Many people avoid difficult conversations because they want to be kind.
They don’t want to hurt feelings.
They don’t want to make things awkward.
They don’t want to be that person.
But when clarity is delayed, people are left guessing.
What am I doing wrong?
Where do I stand?
Is this going to come back to bite me later?
Kindness without clarity often creates more stress — not less.
Being clear, done with care, is usually the kinder option in the long run.
For leaders → (30 sec read)
Avoiding conversations in the name of kindness often shifts discomfort rather than removing it.
Short-term comfort can lead to long-term confusion, misalignment, and frustration.
Clear feedback — delivered early and with respect — reduces anxiety, protects trust, and supports growth.
Kindness and clarity aren’t opposites.
But clarity needs to be intentional.
Mindset shift required?
Workplace culture often rewards “being nice”.
We praise people who keep the peace.
Who don’t rock the boat.
Who absorb discomfort quietly.
But clarity is what allows people to do their best work.
When expectations are unspoken or feedback is delayed:
people fill in the gaps themselves
anxiety increases
small issues grow into bigger ones
Clarity, when delivered thoughtfully, isn’t harsh.
It’s respectful.
It says: you deserve to know where you stand.
reflection
Where might you be choosing short-term comfort over long-term clarity?
🔔 coming up on The Work Edit:
How unclear expectations quietly become one of the biggest sources of stress at work.
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No Sugar, No Spice: The Recipe for Real Conversations
Thursday 5 February 2026
12:00 13:00
You might think avoiding tough conversations makes you kind or considerate. In reality, it’s holding everyone back—including you. Let’s face it: dodging discomfort doesn’t just affect you. It hinders your team and your organisation from reaching their full potential. By avoiding these moments, you deprive your team members of valuable feedback, stall their development, and miss opportunities to strengthen your working relationships.
It’s time to break the cycle. It’s Time to Talk.
In this masterclass, you’ll learn how to face these conversations head-on, adopt a practical and proven strategy, and build stronger, more productive connections.
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