While it may sound far-fetched and counter-intuitive, we firmly believe that conflict is not a bad thing. In fact, it is an opportunity for growth and development. Conflict allows us to share and learn different viewpoints, while showing different sides of ourselves with those with whom we interact.
All human beings encounter conflict on a daily basis. Whether we realize it or not, it occurs at the most basic level. Often, when two different people experience the same event from two different angles or from two different perspectives, conflict may arise.
“Conflict is inevitable, but combat is optional.”- Max Lucado
We all have traveled different paths and have accumulated different sets of life experiences providing each of us with different biases and perspectives. With this said, it is inevitable that there will be conflicts between people on a regular basis.
It’s our experience that the vast majority of conflicts in the workplace can be resolved positively. Often, all that is required is to genuinely try to understand the other party to the conflict and to see the situation through their eyes
“Seek to understand before you seek to be understood”- Stephen Covey
The biggest impediment to resolving conflicts is almost always due to one’s ego and emotional state of mind. Many highly intelligent people often get stuck in a whirlpool of emotions, futilely trying to fight yesterday’s battle instead of seeking ways to move forward to a better future.
“Don't let yesterday use up too much of today.”- Will Rogers
Your conflict may have begun quite a while ago, but today is the golden opportunity to break free of the shackles of the past and start moving forward.
“The best time to plant a tree was 20 Years Ago, and the second best time to plant a tree is now.”
-Famous Chinese Proverb (possibly by Confucius)
