Dealing with the Tough Stuff: How to Achieve Results from Crucial Conversations

Acknowledgements

As with all big projects, this book would not have happened without the support and encouragement of various people, who we would like to acknowledge.

We are fortunate to be able to say that we have the most amazing families and are continually blessed with love, support and encouragement. For all that you have put up with—the late hours, distracted looks and general irritability—we thank you.

Darren wants to thank his two co-authors, Alison and Sean. Alison, the corporate world is only just discovering just how awesome you are, something the rest of us have known for ages. The cleverest thing I have ever done was set my sights on you and, after two wonderful kids, we have now given birth to something else! At the time of writing, I'm not sure which was harder! Sean, mate, I have said this many times, but you are the most upstanding guy I have ever met. Thanks for coming on board.

Alison wants to express her deep gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with her best friend and husband, Darren. Your ability to strive for excellence and bring others on the ride with you is something that I deeply admire. You are a man who truly embodies someone willing to tackle the tough stuff. A massive thanks to our beautiful children, Patrick and Kate, with whom some of the strategies in this book have worked exceptionally well! You are our future! Huge gratitude also to Sean for dropping everything to join us on this project: it has been sensational working with you.