3 Nov 05 @ 12:03 am
Positive Conflict
Conflict is a necessary evil. When used correctly and depending on the attitudes and perspectives of those involved, conflict can:
* Diffuse a more serious conflict.
* Spark an urge to search for more facts or solutions.
* Increase group performance and cohesion.
* Find where you stand on a particular topic.
So how do you get to a spot where conflict can influence and help facilitate these positive outcomes?
# Accept conflict as helpful
# Stay focused on defeating the problem, not each other
# Be prepared with facts to solve dilemmas
# Consider the main issue, circumstances and relationships involved
# Remain open about the other party’s position (remembering anger is often natural reaction of conflict as noted in a past Commlog post).
Be warned–don’t over simplify things and falsely resolve a situation by avoiding the source of conflict. Avoidance is often seen by withdrawing from a situation to save the fight for another day, or smoothing the situation saying “let’s not argue,” or “It’s not a big deal.” You’re more likely to succeed if you identify the real issue, the circumstances and relationships that factor in to the situation, and consequences of the resolution.
Conflict may not be comfortable, but when tackled head-on with these process rules in mind, it’s more likely to solve a problem rather than create a bigger one.
posted in category(s): Theory Points
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