How to be Good at Conflict

Conflict. We all experience it, but few of us know how to deal with it in a way that leaves everyone feeling heard and respected. That's because, more often than not, we let our emotions get the best of us. We react instead of responding. And when we do that, the situation only gets worse. But it doesn't have to be that way. With a little bit of effort, you can learn how to handle conflict in a way that leads to positive results. 

Be open and collaborative.

Conflict is not a face-off. It’s a problem to be solved together.

If you're hoping to learn how to resolve conflict in a more productive and effective way, it's important to first understand the basics of active listening. This involves being fully present and focused on the person speaking, as well as demonstrating empathy by trying to see things from their perspective. Once you've truly heard and understood where the other person is coming from, it'll be much easier to find a resolution that works for both of you.

When it comes to conflict, having confidence in what you want and what you stand for is key. This alignment will help you stay strong and focused during difficult conversations. Remember, you are always deserving of respect, and it's important to stay true to yourself while also being respectful of the other person. With practice, you can develop the skills necessary to navigate conflict in a constructive way.

Do your homework.

Change your thoughts.
Feel your feelings.
Set the tone of the conversation.

Prepare to be the leader.

Conflict is an inevitable part of life. It can be difficult, but it's also an opportunity to learn and grow. If you're able to take a leadership role, even if the other person is difficult, you'll be able to achieve a resolution more easily. Remember to stay calm and respectful, and be prepared to listen to the other person's perspective. With a little effort, you can turn conflict into a positive experience.

One of the best ways to approach conflict is to try to generate inclusive ideas that take everyone's needs into account. This can be tricky, but it's worth taking the time to really think through all sides of the issue before coming to a conclusion. Once you have a plan that you think will work for everyone involved, it's important to communicate your ideas clearly and calmly. This way, you can avoid escalating the situation and can hopefully come to a resolution that everyone can be happy with.

Expect Healing

Trust that the universe is designed to heal and that you will be able to find a resolution that works for everyone. Remember that you are not alone in this process – ask for help when you need it and be willing to offer help in return. With a little effort, you can turn conflict into an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

If you're looking to improve your ability to handle conflict, it's important to start by understanding the basics of active listening and empathy. This will help you navigate difficult conversations in a way that leads to positive results for everyone involved. With practice, you can develop the skills necessary to resolve conflict in a constructive way. Conflict is inevitable, but with the right tools, you can turn it into an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

Check out the latest Living Out Love podcast episode on conflict resolution to learn more about how to handle conflict in a constructive way.