A new report from Interflora shows we shy away from having difficult conversations as four in ten admit they avoid tough discussions altogether, and a third say they wish someone had asked them how they were really feeling.
To help break down barriers, Interflora has launched Conversations in Bloom - a set of conversation starter cards designed to make opening up easier. The prompts cover everything from personal growth and letting go of the past, to discussing tough emotions and navigating support during hard times.
In addition to the cards, they’ve teamed up with therapist Dr Sophie Mort to offer practical tips on how to ease into meaningful conversations with loved ones.
Dr Sophie said: "Voice notes provide the emotional connection of speech without the pressure of real-time responses. This format can reduce anxiety for millennials and Gen Z, who are more comfortable with asynchronous communication. Send a voice note instead of a text to help ease into deeper conversations with loved ones.
"Walking side by side reduces the social pressure of direct eye contact, making it easier to talk about difficult topics. Physical activity can also boost mood, making conversation feel more natural. Suggest going for a phone-free walk with a friend or family member to engage in more meaningful conversations.
"Emotional vulnerability is contagious—when one person opens up, it often encourages others to do the same, fostering deeper emotional bonds. Propose a vulnerability swap where each person shares one thing they’ve been keeping to themselves."
Bethany Day, Brand Manager at Interflora, said: “Our research shows that people are really struggling to have difficult conversations, even with their closest friends and family. We want to encourage people to open up because we know that when you say more, you forge stronger relationships and deeper connections and that is good for our health and happiness.”
The Conversation In Bloom cards will be available to buy from the Interflora website from October 1, with an RRP of £10 and free delivery.
