Conflict is a natural part of life, and therefore, a natural part of business ownership! Although conflict tends to have a bad connotation — we are always reminding ourselves that conflict helps us to learn and grow in ways we otherwise may not have. The key is to approach conflict in a healthy way. Today, we’re sharing 3 tips for healthy conflict resolution.

3 Tips for Healthy Conflict Resolution

1. Pause for peace, perspective, and preparation. Unfortunately, we have all received a mean-spirited e-mail. It’s the worst feeling! Use the space you are given to pause before addressing the e-mail. Often times, our gut-reaction isn’t our healthiest reaction — so be sure to take a moment to gather yourself, to gain perspective (put yourself in the other person’s shoes) and to prepare to approach the conflict from a place of understanding, learning, and growth. Prepare yourself: the other person may not be prepared to do the same.
2. Ask to speak face-to-face. Our generation is quite dependent upon digital communication. However, digital communication can be easily misconstrued or misunderstood. Ask the other party to speak face-to-face so you can discuss the issue clearly. Before speaking, ask yourself, “Is what I am about to say helpful or harmful to reaching a resolution?” Everything you say should advance both people toward a healthy resolution. Raising your voice, crossing your arms, or rolling your eyes won’t help or advance the conversation — so be mindful of these bad habits!
3. Be assertive. According to a Huffington Post article, being assertive means, “Asking for what you need, saying no to what you can’t do, and being open to negotiation and compromise.” Being assertive does not mean arguing, shouting, or avoiding until the other person sees your point of view. Once again, everything you say and do should move the conversation forward — so there is no place for blaming. Is what I am about to say helpful or harmful to reaching a resolution?

Conflict resolution is not an easy thing to approach. However, with practice, it will become easier and better! The conflict may seem like a big deal to you in the moment, but as time passes, you’ll find it was just a small piece of your day, week, month, year. Best of all, you can take the lessons you’ve learned and apply them in the future!

 
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