To put it simple, conflict is a battle of perspective. To see an example of differing opinions, take an item, any item will do like a pen, soda can, paperweight, etc., and ask a group of people what it is that they see. You will be amazed at how many different answers you receive from the individuals. In order for conflict to happen, there must be a sense of conflict or battle among the ideas, some sort of disagreement.
You will discover that are a number of different paths that you can take in order to resolve a conflict. Here are some surefire tips to help get you on the right track:
- Identify the differences. The initial step to resolving conflict should be recognizing as soon as possible that you are involved in a conflict because two different perspectives exist.
- Avoid the drama. Understand that different people are going to have different opinions.
- See their side. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes and look at things from his or her point of view. Take the time to listen to what he or she has to say without immediately assuming that they are wrong and you are right.
- Remember to focus on the issue and not on the person with whom you are having the conflict. Be the bigger person and focus your attention on the problem that you are attempting to resolve. Take the time to hear new ideas from new perspectives in order to come up with the best solution. Understand that two heads are better than one, but not if they are butting.
- Look for new ground. Try to look for a way to come to an understanding or find some kind of common ground, but really try to alter your perspectives and find new solutions that will take you beyond the current boundaries. This way you will be able to come up with new ideas and thoughts that you can use to produce some amazing work. When you leverage ideas and solutions from a number of different vantage points, you will be able to expand your mind and extraordinary things.
D. White enjoys writing about the multitude of ways to search for a masters of counseling.
