Disagreements are bound to happen as long as life exists and we encounter different people with different perspectives on certain issues daily.
Not everyone will see things the same way at every turn. People have the power of choice and hence, this power influences their way of seeing things.
Let's take for an example, a glass that is half filled with water. Some people might say that the glass is half empty after looking at it and some other people will say that the glass is half full. This is perspective in play and as such, it can lead to conflict.
What is conflict?
In simple terms, conflict is a state of disagreement between two or more people,groups or even ideologies based on differences in values, beliefs, interests and goals. This could then lead to tension and argument.
With this definition, I can say that conflict is inevitable. In our offices, there will always be those who would always object to a particular point of view, idea or decision.
In relationships, conflict is bound to happen and like I said earlier, it all boils down to our power of choice.
What about intra-personal conflict? It is also a fact that sometimes, we debate with ourselves on a particular decision to make, what outfit to wear or even what food to prepare and eat.
But with all these, is conflict then a bad thing?
My sincere answer is no, conflict can be quite useful Inna way. It is subjective to how it is handled. Just like the way fire is both useful when handled properly but destructive when handled improperly. The same analogy works with conflict.
Let me explain further…
Conflict is simply a state of disagreement. It could be disagreement on a decision at work, a change of plans at home or with friends or even a disagreement to how things need to be approached within your social circle. It is no big deal as long as there is mutual respect, tolerance and clear communication. After all, everyone has the right to freedom of speech and choice.
In a court of law, the defendant and prosecutor argue out their case and disagree onec in a while. This is to convince the presiding judge and memebers of the jury to see things from their own point of view.
Where conflict becomes bad is when it leads to a falling out, argument and even a fight. This becomes intolerable and disheartening because I believe that we can disagree to agree.
We can air our views on our dislikes on certain issues without being disrespectful and discourteous.
Since I'm aware that conflicts cannot be avoided in life, I've learnt that there are numerous conflict resolution skills that can help manage conflicting views. Here are my tested and proven strategies.
#1. Being open minded
This affords me the space to welcome new perspectives and since I know that I'm not an embodiment of all knowledge, it would keep me calm to listen to other people's views.
#2. I empathize, listen and tolerate
As a practicing teacher with over a decade of experience, I can tell you for a fact that this skill works well. When people disagree, take time to listen to their views, put yourself in their shoes and feel their reasons for the disagreement. You just might understand them better and probably, work towards a common ground.
#3. Communicate clearly
If for any reason there will be a change of plans from a previous agreement, it is wise to communicate promptly and clearly. Don't be vague and assume ”people will understand”..... No, rather make things clear and if there are disagreements, try to clarify the reasons for the changes in a cool and respectful tone. This would make whoever was conflicting to understand.
I also know that there are some people who are controversial in nature and they derive joy in negative use of conflicts. If faced with such a dilemma, the best method is to bring in a neutral higher up to mediate and settle the conflict.
Thanks for reading.
Images were imagined with Meta Ai.
