Whether we are dealing with under-performing employees, disagreeing with our spouse, negotiating with a dif­ficult client, or simply saying “no” or “I’m sorry”, we face difficult conversa­tions almost every day.

The only way to appropriately handle conflict is to actually deal with it. The dilemma for most people is whether to avoid or confront. Most people avoid difficult conversations because it makes them feel uncomfortable. Un­fortunately, if you avoid dealing with a troublesome situation, you’re actu­ally prolonging the agony and may be creating some resentment. But if we confront the problem, things may get worse.

On the other hand, is there such a thing as a diplomatic hand when delivering a difficult message?

http://www.lead-africa.com/2014/will-you-avoid-or-confront-2/