Conflict, arguments, and change are a natural part of our lives. Conflict is an inevitable and necessary aspect of all relationships. No two people will agree on everything. However, it is very important to learn to deal with conflict in a constructive manor.
Conflict resolution is a way for two or more parties to find a peaceful solution to a disagreement among them. The disagreement may be personal, financial, political, or emotional.
WHEN SHOULD YOU RESOLVE CONFLICT?
- Conflict resolution is appropriate for almost any disagreement. But for more serious conflicts, and conflicts between groups rather than individuals, you may need some additional skills.
- Conflict resolution teaches people how to amicably resolve life’s unavoidable disagreements and conflicts.
- Conflict resolution can benefit family members, couples, coworkers, and friends.
Conflict can trigger strong emotions and can lead to hurt feelings, disappointment, and discomfort. When handled in an unhealthy manner, it can cause irreparable rifts, resentments, and break-ups. But when conflict is resolved in a healthy way, it increases your understanding of the other person, builds trust, and strengthens your relationships.
When conflicts arise, they need to be dealt with in a calm, respectful and direct manor. Avoiding disagreements will always have a negative impact on relationships. It is very important that both or all parties respect each other’s thoughts and feelings and approach resolution with a positive attitude. With the proper counseling, conflict resolution can make your relationships stronger and more resilient then ever before.
Emotional awareness is the key to understanding yourself and others. If you don’t know how or why you feel a certain way, you won’t be able to communicate effectively or resolve disagreements.
Although knowing your own feelings may sound simple, many people ignore or try to sedate strong emotions like anger, sadness, and fear. Your ability to handle conflict, however, depends on being connected to these feelings. If you’re afraid of strong emotions or if you insist on finding solutions that are strictly rational, your ability to face and resolve differences will be limited.
Emotional awareness—the consciousness of your moment-to-moment emotional experience—and the ability to manage all of your feelings appropriately, is the basis of a communication process that can resolve conflict.