The Courage Tax: What you pay every time you delay the conversation that needs to happen

Why do difficult conversations feel so much harder the longer we avoid them? In this episode, Stacey and Cade unpack the hidden “taxes” leaders pay when they delay hard conversations at work; from damaged relationships and declining performance to mental overload and unnecessary anxiety. They explore why silence often costs more than honesty. The conversation offers practical tools for leaders, including how to start difficult conversations, avoid climbing the ladder of inference, and use curiosity instead of judgment. TakeawaysAvoidance has real costsSilence is often misinterpretedThe story in your head is usually worse than realityStart with observable facts, not assumptionsChoose the right openingChapters00:00 The Cost of Avoiding Difficult Conversations01:11 The Conversation You’ve Been Putting Off03:05 The Hidden “Taxes” of Avoidance06:50 Why Leaders Avoid Giving Feedback08:22 The Cognitive Load of Unspoken Issues10:26 Why Difficult Conversations Feel Worse Than They Are 17:52 How to Start a Difficult ConversationIf you’re a leader struggling to bring up hard topics, this is the episode for you. To learn more about us and the podcast, visit youmighttrythis.com and check us out on social media @youmighttrythis