I met with a new leader today. As we discussed how she was feeling about her leadership role, she said she was afraid to admit that she was uncomfortable having difficult conversations about performance gaps with those she supervises. I don't know many people who love having difficult conversations. They are generally unpleasant for most of us. I was very proud of this young manager for her willingness to come forward with her insecurities. We were able to identify where in the conversations she was feeling most insecure and make a plan for how to handle it next time it happens. I am confident that this leader will master the art of having difficult performance conversations. She was brave enough to take the first step into more confident and calm leadership. She has a bright future ahead.