When more than one individual is working on a project, conflict is unavoidable. A conflict arises when two or more people hold opposing viewpoints on the same issue. We witness conflicts in both personal and professional lives. If managed properly, conflicts can be a healthy part of daily life. They can strengthen relationships in the workplace and personal life. This conflict encourages growth if two opponents can agree on a mutually agreed-upon solution. Healthy conflict can lead to better outcomes and more creative solutions.
When we discuss conflict, we rarely think about how to have it healthily. We may have observed in our environment that a difference of opinion will almost always result in a conflict. That is not the case if you think the same way. All it needs is a sense of acceptance toward a diverse and opposing viewpoint.
In this article, we will look at the steps we can take to keep a conflict healthy. In addition, I will also share what worked for me while having a conflict at the workplace. If you want to resolve a conflict that is in favor of both parties then you must read the 5 steps for keeping the conflict healthy listed below.
By the end of this article, you will be able to evaluate how you can resolve a conflict on your own.
- First, listen then act
It is the most crucial and initial step. When there is a conflict, there are always strong emotions involved. Listening can work in two ways. On one hand, it gives them confidence that you are paying attention to the conflicted parties. On the other hand, it provides you with more clarity when listening to help you come up with a better solution.
In a conflict, active listening requires patience, focus, and presence. There are fewer chances for a conflict to grow when you carefully listen to the other person. It’s possible that by discussing it, you’ll be able to come up with a mutually acceptable solution.
- Keep the conflict in a small circle
It is one of the most crucial actions you can take to keep an argument healthy while still being able to resolve it. If you’re in a conflict, don’t try to include individuals only to win by having a large number of people on your side. You will undoubtedly be unable to resolve the disagreement if you do so.
Avoid involving others in your conflict. The best approach to keep it is to keep it hidden from those who aren’t related to you. Even if the conflict has lasted an undetermined amount of time, maintain the boundaries.
Keeping the conflict in a narrow circle, I feel, makes it easier to find a solution. Otherwise, you’ll need to take the support of a third neutral party.
- Look for common ground
As previously said, a conflict is unavoidable. When confronted with a disagreement, strive to keep focused on the common ground. You must express your point of view but do so respectfully. After everyone has presented their perspectives on a current situation, strive to find a point of agreement that is in everyone’s best interests.
When I need to keep a conflict healthy while also resolving it, I keep track of everyone’s thoughts and the best solution they can think of. This cuts down on the time it takes to solve the problem. Employees also have the assurance that their input is valued. In the end, looking at the common ground leads to a solution.
- Stick to the ongoing issue
You must remain focused on the current problem. When there is a disagreement, it weakens the other person’s stance. The opponent brings up a previous incident that occurred in the past and the impact it had on everyone. No! It’s not something you should be doing. Keep the conflict as explicit as possible without bringing up previous issues.
- Focus on resolving, not winning
Even if you appear to be on the right side of a conflict, your approach is crucial. Try to make your point as understandable as possible. When you’re concentrating on finding a healthy solution. You will be completely satisfied with the outcome of the conflict. Aside from that, it is not always possible to win an argument. When things don’t seem to be going as planned, be humble and keep within appropriate bounds.
To Sum Up
I believe that a well-managed conflict can always be beneficial. It signifies that two parties are considering it and have formed an opinion. It’s good to have a conflict now and then. I believe that listening was the most important aspect of my success. Half of the issue is automatically resolved while listening to either party. So far, listening has helped me. You can use the method that is most appropriate for your situation.
