Finding equilibrium in everyday life can be a challenge.
Sometimes conflict occurs and it can be harmful to the people around you and to
yourself. Having the ability to control
your emotions can be a powerful tool.
When I think about a recent conflict with a co-worker, I realize my
emotions are a factor in the resolution not going as well as I expected. My own biases of my opinions, set my emotions
in a tail spin, and this is when voices may be raised or words may be said that
should not be said.
The center for non-violence communication explains how
communication can affect relationships, if strategies are used to ensure
conflict and is handled in a civil way. One
strategy I have implemented when faced with conflict, is to remove myself from
the situation before saying something I regret.
This can help me to calm down and find a balance before confronting
someone. I also have been trying to
focus on the issue rather than my position on the issue. Finally, I have tried to implement the idea of
staying focused on the present no the past.
These tips are helping me deal with everyday conflict at home with my
son and with colleagues in the work place.
References:
The Center for Nonviolent Communication. (n.d.). The center for nonviolent communication. Retrieved from http://www.cnvc.org/
Tisha,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your story. I think that sometimes, taking a step back to calm down can be very effective in containing a conflict before emotions take the focus away from the matter at hand, power struggles ensue, and permanent damage is done to a relationship. Due to the sensitive and critical nature of our work it can be exceptionally challenging to not let our feelings get in the way. Once a conflict reaches that point it is common for us to play from our biases, previous experiences, and knowledge base. I appreciate the steps you are taking to become better at conflict resolution. Good luck!
Tisha,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. I think that you made some very good points. I also want to thank you for sharing your story. I think that in the heat of the moment it can be very hard to just take a step back and I applaud you for doing that very tricky step. It really takes a lot of discipline to do that. I think that the strategies you have laid out are very good. I wish you luck at becoming better at conflict resolution. Good luck to you.
Tisha,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing. I like the idea of removing yourself from the conversation - almost lit a time out.. sometimes our emotions do get the best of us and stepping aside is a great way to reflect before reacting.
Thank you!