---
title: "Calculated Interpersonal Risk-Taking"
source: "https://virtualddd.com/heuristics/calculated-interpersonal-risk-taking/"
authors: ["Michael Plöd", "Beija Nigl", "Kenny Schwegler", "Andrea Magnorsky", "Andrew Harmel-Law"]
tags: ["deep democracy", "facilitating software architecture and design", "psychological safety", "sociotechnical systems", "resistance behaviour"]
type: "guiding heuristics"
question: "How should one approach potentially confrontational or emotionally charged conversations with key stakeholders?"
submitter: "Michael Plöd"
---

# Calculated Interpersonal Risk-Taking

Sometimes, direct and empathetic engagement carries interpersonal risk but can yield significant breakthroughs. Prepare for potential negative outcomes by considering pros, cons, and a plan for managing the situation. Maintain professionalism and avoid taking offenses personally.

## Examples

Initiating a direct conversation with a highly resistant stakeholder, knowing they might react negatively, but having a strategy to remain professional and detached from the outcome.