The Truth You’re Avoiding Could Be Your Team’s Breakthrough
In today’s fast-paced world, one skill continues to stand out as both a challenge and an opportunity for leaders: straightforwardness.
Despite the rise of AI, automation, and data-driven decision-making, human connection remains the ultimate differentiator and connection begins with communication.
The Cost of Holding BackToo often, leaders hesitate to:
Share bold ideasChallenge the status quoDeliver candid feedbackWhy? Fear of conflict, rejection, or discomfort. But silence comes at a cost: diluted conversations, missed opportunities, and diminished trust and influence.
Suppressing your voice limits innovation and impact.
Straightforwardness is a non-negotiable Core EQ competency.
After two decades of designing and delivering Emotional Intelligence (EQ) programs and integrating the Rochemartin Emotional Capital diagnostic, I’ve seen firsthand that straightforwardness is a key competency of high-EQ leaders.
But let’s be clear, straightforwardness is not bluntness. It’s about clarity, authenticity, and constructive communication.
It’s the ability to express your truth with empathy and purpose. In a world craving connection, this is fundamental to leadership.
Why EQ Matters More Than EverEQ underpins how we lead, communicate, and influence. It’s no longer a “nice-to-have” it’s non-negotiable.
Straightforwardness sits at the heart of EQ. It reflects our ability to manage emotions (ours and others’) while staying authentic and connected.
These aren’t just traits, they’re actionable strategies to elevate your leadership voice:
1. Self-Belief
You can’t express yourself powerfully if you don’t believe in your value.
Action: Reflect on your wins, strengths, and impact. Build self-trust by keeping promises to yourself and speaking up when you’ve been holding back.
2. Courage
Straightforwardness demands courage and I believe, the willingness to step into discomfort.
Action: Reframe courageous conversations as opportunities. Ask yourself: “What’s the cost of silence?”
Often, silence costs more than the discomfort of speaking up.
3. Assertiveness
Assertiveness bridges confidence and respect. It allows you to express views clearly while remaining open to others.
Action: Use “I” statements “I see,” “I feel,” “I recommend” to take ownership and reduce defensiveness.
4. Intention
Every conversation has an intention. Without clarity, even the right message can land poorly.
Action: Ask yourself:
“What outcome do I want?”“How do I want the other person to feel?”Intentionality ensures your message aligns with your values and purpose.
5. Emotional Control
Straightforwardness isn’t about emotional outbursts, it’s about emotional mastery.
Action: Pause and breathe when emotions run high. Silently reframe: “I’m frustrated” becomes a cue to regulate your response and maintain clarity.
I want to give you a bonus ingredient and that is acknowledgement.
When sharing a differing opinion or navigating a tough conversation, acknowledge the other person first. This builds respect, empathy, and trust. A few suggestions below.
“I see where you’re coming from.”“You’ve raised a valid point.”Then share your perspective.
What will it cost you not build on straightforwardness?
Poor communication costs businesses US$12,500 per employee annually in lost productivity.
But the real cost?
Disengagement. Low morale. Missed innovation.
Your voice is one of your most powerful leadership tools.
Straightforwardness isn’t just a skill; it’s a leadership imperative.
It creates psychological safety, fosters trust, and inspires others to do the same.
Take some time to reflect.
What conversation are you avoiding today?
What truth needs to be voiced in your team or organisation?
Withholding your ideas limits growth for you and your team.
Not sharing your gifts is, quite simply, selfish.
The world needs your perspective.
Speak it with courage, clarity, acknowledgement, and heart.
Lead to be limitless.
