A Virtuous Cycle
August 5, 2026
On my way to work recently, I drove down a street lined with signs that read, “No stopping or standing.” But at the very end of the street, right next to one of those signs, stood a stop sign.
It struck me that life often feels the same way. People sometimes send mixed messages—telling us not to stop, then demanding we stop at the same time. Whether intentional or not, these situations can create confusion, frustration, and wasted energy.
So, what can you do when you find yourself facing mixed signals? Here are three steps that can help:
- Clarify the conflict. Confirm that you’re seeing two different messages and ask the person if they recognize the contradiction.
- Seek resolution. If they acknowledge it, work with them to resolve the apparent conflict and get clarity on what they really mean.
- Choose wisely. Some people intentionally create confusion. If you notice a pattern of mixed messages from someone, consider limiting your time with them and investing more energy in relationships where communication is clear and direct.
Mixed messages may be common, but they don’t have to control how you respond. By addressing them directly, you can protect your time, energy, and peace of mind.
Leaders face mixed messages often—in their teams, organizations, or even from stakeholders. Here are three ways to apply these lessons professionally:
- Model clarity. Before communicating, double-check that your message is consistent across channels. Clear expectations prevent wasted effort and confusion.
- Address ambiguity quickly. If you hear conflicting directions within your team, call it out respectfully and work to resolve it early, before it derails progress.
- Encourage openness. Create a culture where team members feel safe asking for clarification when something doesn’t add up. This reduces misunderstandings and boosts efficiency.
By leading with clarity and cutting through confusion, you empower your team to stay focused, efficient, and effective.
