Many of us avoid conflict at all costs, but unresolved conflict can lead to resentment and other problems down the line. The truth is, conflict is inevitable, so we might as well get comfortable with it transpiring.
To benefit both you and the other person in the conflict, start by practicing active listening. While this may be difficult, it will help you to acknowledge the other person’s point of view while they could be making a valid point. If you’re not paying attention to what they’re saying and just considering what you’re going to say next, it could escalate the conflict. Try to seek clarity of what the other is saying/what you are hearing rather than seeking to prove your point. This Validation is HUGE for the other and HUGE for you.
Remind yourself you’re working together. Oftentimes, we feel we are fighting against someone in a conflict. Ultimately, you and the other party are trying to resolve whatever conflict is being brought to light. Don’t treat it like a battlefield.
Working together can help lead to a win-win compromise. Try your best to work to a goal beneficial for both of you rather than trying to prove a point. When one party wins or simply gives in, someone is losing. Ultimately, this doesn’t resolve the conflict, it simply just ends the confrontation about the conflict. It divides you into winner or loser?!
Try to share your thoughts and feelings using “I” statements to avoid placing blame. For example, instead of saying “You always…” say “I feel frustrated when…”. This can help the other person see things from your perspective without feeling attacked.
It’s also important to acknowledge your role in the conflict and apologize if necessary. Taking responsibility for your actions can help rebuild trust and move towards resolution.
At the end of the day, it’s all about communication. Working together instead of against each other will always benefit you. While conflict may seem daunting, avoiding it only prolongs the inevitable. Embracing conflict as a natural part of human interaction is key to fostering healthy relationships and resolving issues constructively. Through active listening, empathy, and a commitment to collaboration, we can transform conflicts into opportunities for growth and understanding…this even allowed an acquaintance to become my best friend 40 years ago!! By working together towards a mutually beneficial resolution, rather than seeking to prove ourselves right, we pave the way for stronger connections and lasting harmony. Remember, communication is the cornerstone of conflict resolution – let’s strive to communicate openly, respectfully, and with a shared goal of finding common ground.