3 Easy Ways to Manage Conflict ...

In a loving relationship, couples don't fight! Is that true?

There are many people who assume that conflict would destroy their relationship and, as a consequence, avoid any serious argument, assiduously.?They convince themselves that a conflict doesn’t really exist but that if they just ignore it, then it will disappear.?They see conflict as a sign that their relationship is not working and so they leave the problem to grow and become an invisible wall between them.

However, it is often not the conflict itself that can destroy the relationship but the avoidance of recognizing it, that might well do so.?

In a healthy relationship, problems that arise are dealt with on a regular basis in which both parties recognize that some discussion and/or action needs to be taken to resolve the problem.?An issue that fails to be addressed can turn into an unwanted plant that can grow, often unseen, to take over your garden.

In fact, conflict can help your relationship grow where all parties are respectful of each other and their differing points of view.?If two people respect each other then they should be able to develop a conflict resolution style that will work well for them.

Relationship Advice

In the workplace, there will always be situations that need talking through – whether it be issues such as distribution of work, timekeeping, or overall responsibility for departmental targets, etc. ??When conflict is dealt with in a constructive and effective way, there will be room for greater understanding and growth between the two parties to any dispute.??

So how can you approach conflict in a way that will enhance either your personal or business relationship?

3 Relationship Tips For You

Communicate:?Communication is the key to resolving conflict by not only listening to what is said but also how it is being said.?Also by having an openness of mind and not interrupting with your point of view but by fostering a sense of empathy by thinking how you might feel if you were in the other’s shoes.?If you find it difficult to communicate, then a confidential chat with me might be helpful for you.

Actively participate:?In talking through your issue, aim to have a ‘win-win’ resolution that is acceptable to all parties.?Actively listen to the other’s concerns when, through negotiation, you may arrive at an acceptable solution.

Choose the right time:?The atmosphere needs to be conducive to talking and listening. ?Do not talk things through when irritable, hungry, or rushed?but try to ensure that you release your emotions regarding the points at issue before you speak. ?If not, then take a break and holdover to another day.

Conflict is part of every relationship.?Even couples who have been married for many years will argue from time to time when they face difficult challenges. The key to resolving conflict is not to be frightened of facing it.

That which separates healthy couples from others is their ability to acknowledge the existence of conflict within their relationship and their willingness to approach it with both an open mind and respect for the other side.

?And so it is the same for the workplace.?Whether you experience face-to-face conflict or conflict when talking via Zoom or Teams, the same principles apply.

We don't always get it right when we communicate - emotions take over and we say things we wish we hadn't said. It happens to all of us and we dig a hole for ourselves. But as of with all holes that we dig, don't forget your shovel to get you out of it! And saying 'sorry' could just be a good word to remember along the way!

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