In the article How to Have a Difficult Conversation When You Don't Like Conflict Joel Garfinkle gives great tips and ways to incorporate those tips into the conversations you may be too afraid to have.
Avoiding difficult discussions can prevent a personal or even business relationship from reaching its full potential. Garfinkle gives those of us who fear any sort of conflict an easier way to approach something that may need the attention. Coming at difficult situations from a supportive and curious stance allows for a positive and respectful conversation. It is also very important not to try to plan a difficult conversation because that will cause more anxiety. Moreover, difficult conversations rarely go as planned, so it is a waste of time to stress over it beforehand. Knowing how to approach topics in a way that suits you is very important in every aspect of life. Being able to have these conversations not only helps avoid future issues, but it also prevents passive aggressive behaviors as well.