The Truth About Hard Conversations (That No One Wants to Say Out Loud)

The Truth About Hard Conversations (That No One Wants to Say Out Loud)

Let’s just get straight to it: Hard conversations are uncomfortable. They’re messy. They feel like a hot pit of dread in your chest. And most of us—especially if you grew up people-pleasing—will do anything to avoid them.

I get it. I’ve been there. In fact, most of my early twenties were spent contorting myself to keep the peace, trying to fit into places that didn’t feel like home, and quietly resenting people because I didn’t have the guts (yet) to say what I actually felt.

But here’s the truth bomb:

You don’t get deep, thriving, meaningful relationships without hard conversations.

And no, you don’t have to burn bridges or be a hard-ass. But you do need to learn how to honour your truth—and communicate it in a way that matches your values and your vision.

What I Learned in the Fire 🔥

One of the most painful but necessary convos I ever had was with a close friend who also worked in my business. The work dynamic just wasn’t working, and instead of letting it fester and damage our friendship, I had to say:

“I love you, but I don’t think we should work together anymore.”

It was gut-wrenching. But it preserved our friendship. We stopped working together—but we still hang out, grab coffee, go out. That bridge (not compromise—shout out to Lacey Phillips for the reframe) was what saved our relationship.

Boundaries Don’t Mean You’re Harsh

Even as a boundary coach, I still dread the hard convos. I freeze. I get defensive. I fumble. But I do them anyway—because they matter. Every time I’ve leaned into discomfort, my relationships have transformed. It actually makes space for me to soften because I’ve been clear.

It’s not about being rigid. It’s about being real.

Sometimes… It Doesn’t Go Well

Here’s the bit that no one wants to admit: sometimes your hard convo won’t be met with grace. Sometimes the relationship doesn’t survive. That’s okay. That’s information. You don’t need to hold onto relationships that can’t hold your truth.

The Real Self-Care

If you’re preaching self-love but letting people walk all over you—something’s gotta give. Boundaries are self-love. Having hard conversations is self-care.

Want Help With the Words?

You don’t have to go in blind. If you freeze or over-explain or walk away feeling like you said too much (or not enough), I’ve got you.
🧠 Grab Words That Work — my paid cheat sheet with scripts, prompts, and real-life language to help you navigate hard convos like a pro.

It’s not just about having the courage. It’s about having the words.

A Journal Prompt to Leave You With:

Who is someone in your life that you need to have a hard conversation with... and why haven’t you yet?