Why Feedback, Conflict, and Self-Awareness are Key to a Thriving Career / Tash Willcocks / Ep. #223

I try to avoid conflict... most of the time.It creates tension that I usually find counter-productive.But what if this tension is actually the catalyst for growth?Have I been missing out?Our guest Tash Willcocks thinks so.She's a self-proclaimed former conflict avoider who now champions the idea of "running towards the conflict" to unlock its potential for positive change.Yes, conflict creates a tension that most of us instinctively shy away from.But according to Tash, this tension can foster collaboration and drive personal growth when channeled in the right ways.There's just one small problem.Conflict in the workplace often occurs when people give (or receive) feedback. But most of us aren't really great at this.So, instead of using feedback as a constructive opportunity, things either spiral out of control, or people conceal the key message out of politeness.In both cases, it's a missed opportunity.The art is to find that sweet spot between kindness and clarity, where we can give and receive feedback in a way that feels supportive and helps us grow.I have to say, Tash's journey from conflict avoidance to embracing tension is quite inspiring.So, if you want to turn those tough conversations into moments where you learn and grow the most, this episode has you covered.Tash made me think: What is the best feedback I've received, from whom, and what made it so powerful? What would be your answer...Enjoy the episode, and keep making a positive impact!~ Marc--- [ 1. GUIDE ] --- 00:00 Welcome to episode 22304:00 Embracing creative conflict05:45 What sparked her interest in this topic07:00 Take hard conversations10:30 Run towards the conflict13:00 Teaching conflict16:00 Opening up wounds19:00 Radical candor23:30 Avoiding hard talks21430 Overcoming avoidance27:00 Feedback and timing30:00 Giving & receiving feedback32:30 People solve problems35:00 Beyond reading design books38:00 Starving artist mindset39:15 Takeaways so far43:30 Drama triangle vs Empowerment triangle47:00 Creating self-awareness while drawing49:30 Drawing as journaling51:00 Ruthlessly curious53:00 Piece of advice54:45 Question to ponder55:00 Resources --- [ 2. LINKS ] --- https://www.linkedin.com/in/tashwillcocks/https://www.instagram.com/tashwillcockshttps://bsky.app/profile/tashwillcocks.bsky.socialResources:Radical Candor (Book)Radical Candor (Podcast)Turn the Ship around - BookLadder of leadership MindSpring Presents: "Greatness" by David MarquetJohari WindowGiving and receiving feedback - cards Susan Wheelan Team DevelopmentDrama and Empowerment TriangleScott Berkun - Why Design is hard --- [ 3. CIRCLE ] --- Join our private community for in-house service design professionals. ⁠https://servicedesignshow.com/circle