Crucial Conversations

Foreword

This is a breakthrough book. That is exactly how I saw it when I first read the manuscript. I so resonated with the importance, power, and timeliness of its message that I even suggested to the authors that they title it “Breakthrough Conversations.” But as I read deeper, listened to the tapes, and experienced the insight borne of years of experience with this material, I came to understand why it is titled Crucial Conversations.

From my own work with organizations, including families, and from my own experience, I have come to see that there are a few defining moments in our lives and careers that make all the difference. Many of these defining moments come from “crucial” or “breakthrough” conversations with important people in emotionally ...