Our greatest personal growth opportunities are often hidden behind life’s challenges. Figuring out how to communicate unpleasant news adds a layer of complexity to difficult situations. I recently chatted about sharing bad news with Wynne Leon on an episode of her How to Share podcast.
During our conversation, we discussed strategies for sharing life’s challenges, both in a personal and professional context.
About the podcast
When Wynne launched her new podcast, I was delighted when she asked me to be among her first guests.
How to Share is a podcast about the why of sharing and how to do it better. With her guests, Wynne dives into how to share—the right information, to the appropriate audience, at the right time. And she explores tips on how to receive when others share.
Skillfully sharing bad news amid life’s challenges
When confronted with a life-threatening illness, there’s no rule book on how to share and when.
As someone who values openness and authenticity, figuring out how to break the news to others was one of the most difficult challenges I faced following my breast cancer diagnosis. I had experience sharing bad news in the workplace, but this was uncharted territory for me.
Still reeling from the emotion and shock of the news, I knew I needed a plan on what and how to tell others. How would I tell my daughters? What about my mother and sisters? How would I share the news with my extended family, my broader social circle and my professional network? Who else needed to know?
During our conversation, Wynne and I chatted about the approach I took when sharing my cancer diagnosis. And we explored the similarities and differences between sharing bad news in a personal and a workplace setting.
It was an honour to be given the opportunity to share my story. Please visit Wynne’s site for links to the podcast.
How to Share Life’s Challenges – Surprised by Joy
What are your tips for sharing bad news? Drop me a comment below to let me know.
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Sharing badness is one of things we’re collectively not very good at, nor are we collectively very good at responding to it either. Often we default to clichés
It is difficult not to fall into clichés. I always think it’s better to ask questions than offer advice, especially in the case of health news.
Thank you, Michelle. I know this is going to be full of wisdom coming from you and Wynne. I look forward to tuning in later. Hugs! 💕
Oh, you’re so kind Vicki. Wynne is a terrific host…just like you! 🤗
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I’m so grateful to you for coming on to talk about this subject. Your values of authenticity and openness really shine through in this conversation. And your plan for sharing is so good and is a great model to help others. Thank you, Michelle!
It was a pleasure, Wynne!