She Strengthens

The Art of Delivering Bad News

A Chance Encounter

At a conference, I was approached by a man who introduced himself with a surprising revelation: I had fired him 25 years prior. This encounter brought back memories of my time as an administrator at a residential school for children with behavioral disorders.

The Unpleasant Task

As a young administrator, I was tasked with letting staff members go due to budget constraints. It was a difficult job, but I had to do it. I didn’t have any formal training, but I learned to handle the situation with empathy and understanding.

Lessons Learned

Looking back, I realize that my approach to delivering bad news was shaped by my own experiences as a care worker. Having started at the bottom, I understood the struggles of my colleagues and could relate to their emotions. This empathy helped me to soften the blow when delivering unpleasant news.

The Importance of Empathy

Empathy is key when delivering bad news. It’s essential to put yourself in the shoes of the person receiving the news and understand the impact it will have on their life. When you show genuine concern, it can make a significant difference in how the news is received.

A Lasting Impression

My encounter with Peter, the man I had fired, left a lasting impression on me. His ability to move on from the experience and approach me with kindness and generosity was truly inspiring. It showed me that even in difficult situations, there is always room for growth and understanding.

The Power of Forgiveness

Peter’s story taught me the importance of forgiveness and moving forward. Holding grudges and dwelling on past mistakes can be debilitating. By letting go of negative emotions, we can create space for new experiences and connections.

A Lesson in Humility

This chance encounter was a humbling experience for me. It reminded me that even in positions of authority, we are not immune to making mistakes. It’s how we learn from those mistakes and grow as individuals that truly matters.

In the end, my conversation with Peter was a powerful reminder of the importance of empathy, forgiveness, and humility. It’s a lesson I will carry with me for years to come.