When I'm preparing for a difficult conversation -- for example, confronting my boss about a major problem -- I do simulate the entire conversation in my head a

When I'm preparing for a difficult conversation -- for example, confronting my boss about a major problem -- I do simulate the entire conversation in my head a few times. I think about how my boss will likely respond to my message, and where misunderstandings are likely to occur, and then adjust my delivery pre-emptively. It's part of communication with empathy, but very similar to self-play.