Five Ideas For Turning Conflict Into Opportunity
It is normal that, in life, conflicts arise between two people who have a good relationship of family, friendship, couple, etc. But learning to manage conflict, rather than avoiding it, is fundamental to successfully advancing and growing this relationship.
A poorly managed conflict can cause a lot of problems. However, when it is resolved correctly, in a respectful and positive way, the conflict is a real opportunity to strengthen the bonds that exist between the two people. It is therefore very important to learn how to resolve conflicts in order to make personal and professional relationships much stronger and more lasting.
Conflict arises from differences, and occurs when two people are in opposition on values, motivations, perceptions, ideas or desires.
The needs of both parties play an important role in the success of their relationship, and both people deserve respect, as well as consideration. In personal relationships, the lack of understanding about the diversity of individual needs can lead to distancing, arguments and total breakdowns.
However, when the parties to the conflict recognize the legitimacy of the needs that are put on the table, and are ready to consider them with an understanding attitude, an infinite number of paths open before them for them to find a creative solution. to their problems, and to improve their relationship.
Conflict is an opportunity
A conflict is a little more important than a simple disagreement. This is a situation in which one or both parties feel a threat, directed against the foundations of their well-being. The conflict is therefore a matter of importance, which does not disappear from the minds of the two people who live it until it is resolved. There is therefore no point in ignoring its existence, and pretending that it does not exist to make everything better.
Our perceptions are influenced by our life experiences, our culture, our values and our beliefs. We respond to conflict on the basis of our perceptions of the situations that are the subject of the problem, and we do not necessarily try to examine the facts as objectively as possible.
On the other hand, it is true that conflicts provoke strong emotions. If we don’t feel comfortable with our emotions, or we are not able to deal with stress, it is very difficult to be able to resolve conflict successfully.
However, conflicts are a real chance to flourish. If you can resolve them, they will strengthen your confidence in the relationship you have with the person in question. This is due to the feeling of security that will bring you to have been able to overcome a disagreement, and to have known how to face the challenges that may have arisen.
How to deal with conflict in a healthy way
1. You must be able to recognize and respond to things that are important to the other person. Don’t shy away, and try to understand his point of view.
2. React calmly and respectfully, without being defensive or reacting in an explosive manner. Do not get carried away or show signs of annoyance.
3. Show yourself willing to forgive and forget the things that gave rise to the conflict, without resentment or hard feelings. Don’t reject the other person because they will feel humiliated and isolated.
4. Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes, and seek to compromise, so that the person also does the same work of empathy. Avoid verbal abuse and don’t try to force your outlook on the other person at all costs.
5. Face conflict, and never try to avoid it.
