Like Mulder and Scully from the X-Files, we all know the truth is out there! Mulder based his belief on his gut, how he felt and his previous experiences.

Scully based hers on science, facts and something real and tangible. In fact, for the truth to really be fully recognised you have to have a little bit of both.

To have a successful outcome from any difficult conversation you must see the situation from other viewpoints as well as your own.

For any difficult conversation to have a successful outcome you must address the 3 truths:

The other person’s truth – learn their story, ask what has happened from their point of view and how that made them feel, really listen and do not interrupt, even if you disagree. Once you understand their point, it may influence what you say, and you may learn something you did not know.

Your truth – share your story, express as well as you can your side of the story, share your version of events, your feelings and beliefs, your concerns, and intentions. Avoid blame or accusations. State the facts.

The third truth –solve the problem together, work towards a solution through mutual understanding, then with the facts, issues and feelings you have talked about together, seek a new way forward that will work for both of you.