Conflicts between people are inevitable and happen to each of us on a daily basis. As human beings each with our own unique life and family experiences and coming from different ethnic backgrounds, we will see and experience the world through our individual perspective.
It is therefore inevitable that when two or more people experience a common event, they will each subjectively interpret it in a slightly or even profoundly different way. This often leads to conflicting versions of a common reality.
“We don’t see things as they are, we see things as we are.” - Anais Nin
Conflict becomes an issue to be dealt with and resolved when it adversely affects our work environment, or our personal lives. What begins with an honest misunderstanding often results in problematic behavior, passive aggressive actions and often direct violence in words and actions.
By taking a step back each party can try and see the situation through the eyes of the other person.
Effective communication is most often the best tool to resolve conflict. By listening, actually paying attention and trying to understand the motives, goals and interests of the other person many conflicts can actually be avoided or resolved.
“The deepest principle of human nature is the craving to be appreciated.” - William James
