Psychological Safety
What’s one action that helps create psychological safety in a conversation?
Listening without interrupting, making eye contact, and being present.
What are the 3 D's we want to avoid in difficult conversations?
Deny
Deflect
Defend
What are the benefits of starting questions with "what"?
Open-ended, nonjudgmental questions that expand thinking.
What does it mean to “co-create” a plan?
It means building the action plan together.
What’s one reason people avoid difficult conversations?
Fear of conflict, discomfort, or damaging relationships.
Why is psychological safety essential in a difficult conversation?
It helps people feel safe enough to speak honestly and take risks.
What’s an example of a "deflect" statement during a conversation?
“I’m not the only one who thinks that.”
What’s a question you can ask if you notice there is a lack of "skill"?
“What knowledge or support would help you feel more confident?”
What is important to consider when defining an action plan?
Specific actions, timelines, and ways to check progress.
What’s a sign that something needs to be addressed?
Team tension, repeated frustration, or gossip after meetings.
Name two nonverbal ways to promote psychological safety.
Open and relaxed body language.
Consistent eye contact.
What’s a way to redirect when someone "denies" what you share with them?
“We may have different perspectives. It’s important that we focus on...”
What's a question that can help uncover limiting beliefs?
“What belief might be holding you back from moving forward?”
What’s one follow-up question to use after agreeing on action steps?
“How would you like to check in and reflect on progress?”
What’s a phrase to gently introduce a tough topic?
“Because I care about your success and the success of your students....there’s something important I’d like to talk through with you.”
What happens when psychological safety is missing in a relationship or culture?
People shut down, hide their true thoughts, or avoid contributing.
Why does "defensiveness" often block progress?
It focuses more on proving a point or determining who is right and wrong, rather than taking action and finding solutions.
Write a “What…” question that invites collaboration.
“What ideas do you have to move forward?"
What's a question that invites accountability?
“What are you committed to doing?”
How can assumptions block productive conversation?
They lead us to script the conversation before it happens—often negatively.
How does vulnerability contribute to psychological safety?
It builds trust and models openness for others to follow.
What's a redirect response to this statement: “I’m not the only one who thinks this!”
“Thanks for sharing. Let’s come back to what you can do in this situation."
How can powerful questions shift someone’s energy in a conversation?
They reduce defensiveness and invite curiosity and ownership.
“What are you committed to doing?” — What makes this question so powerful?
It invites ownership and shows that their contribution matters.
How do you create a plan to tackle the “elephant in the room” without blame or shame?
Clarify the need, focus on shared goals, have positive presuppositions, and use powerful questions.