You want to support your team. But let’s be honest; how often does your team receive a watered-down version of support? Do they get polite agreement and safe silence? What version of you do people see when there’s a hard conversation?
Here’s the scene: You watch a teacher’s lesson fall flat. Do you say, “Great job, keep going!” Or do you risk the harder truth: “I noticed the students struggled with that activity. How did that feel to you?”
⚠️ In a moment like this, you’re standing at a crossroads:
Because support that sticks isn’t about sugarcoating or saving feelings.
It’s about telling the truth in a way that builds trust. It’s support that stretches someone because you believe in who they are becoming.
In a psychologically safe space, candor isn’t criticism; it’s commitment. It says, ‘I care enough to be real with you.’ Let’s grow together.
📌 Thought Spark:
When was the last time you offered honest feedback with care? When did someone give you that gift? Why it matters: Challenge without support doesn’t create change; you need both.
Strategies for Holding Space
“What’s getting in your way right now?” is leading with curiosity, not judgment.
“Can I offer you another perspective? How do you see it?” This creates mutual ownership.
“I believe in your potential, and I see this moment is stretching you.” This is space to ground the hard truth in trust.
Your Turn:
Think about a moment this week when you hesitated to speak up. What would change if you led with candor and care?