Conflict is inevitable and unavoidable in any social community. Developing constructive conflict resolution skills is essential in having satisfying and loving relationships. All conflict is not negative. Conflict can be constructive to relationships, situations and personal growth. Conflict does not need to be judged as positive or negative. What is most essential with respect to conflict is how it is handled.
The difference between conflict that is constructive and conflict that is destructive is listed below:
Conflict is constructive if it results in:
- Solving problems.
- Improves communication.
- Gain knowledge and wisdom that can be applied to future conflicts.
- Building trust and mutual respect.
In contrast, when conflict is not constructively resolved, it can lead to feelings of hurt, pain and distrust that divides people and polarize issues. It can also produce irresponsible or destructive behaviors.
Basically, constructive conflict is when you and another person resolve your disagreement in such a way as to build trust and respect for each other. It also means that you actually deal with the conflict, rather than suppress or avoid it.
Tips For Dealing With Conflict
1. Stop, take a deep breath and consider positive outcomes to the conflict.
2. Be prepared to negotiate with the intention to be fair and generous. Collaboration and compromise are important components of constructive conflict resolution. Try to bridge the gap between you without coercing change.
3. Don’t start sentences with an accusing “you” as in, “You did this and you did that…”; instead say take responsibility for your own personal viewpoint such as , “To me, what seems to have happened is…”.
4. Interact in a dignified and respectful way with others. Be the change you wish to see in the world as Gandhi suggests.
5. Practice good and active listening. Be fully present. Try your best not to form answers and defenses in your mind before the other person is finished speaking. Attempt to understand the other person’s perspective before responding.
6. Keep the conversation focused on the present.
I am committed to providing the highest quality of care and maintain a deep desire to facilitate personal transformation that allows individuals to live whole-heartedly. My desire is that individuals live a life embodied with peace, joy, love, and prosperity. I hope to accomplish my purpose, which is to help you live your dream of realizing your fullest potential in a personal and meaningful manner that allows you to live the life you want.
A.C.T. will provide free resource information for individuals and families to help promote education. For more information, please contact Dr. Drecun at Dr.Drecun@a4ct.com or (858) 792-3541. You may also visit us online at www.a4ct.com. ACT serves the Del Mar 92014 and Rancho Santa Fe 92067 area.
