Stop running away from conflict
By Amy Jackson, ParTNers Center Behavioral Health Consultant
“Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.” – Marie Curie
This quote from Marie Curie speaks to the value of understanding. We need to understand others for good communication. If we don’t learn from others, as Marie says, we may grow fearful.
Lack of communication and fear of conflict are real issues. We see the negative effects in our families, schools and workplaces. Avoiding arguments may feel easier in the short term, but long term it can lead to anger and distrust. This may result in employees quitting, family problems and the end of relationships.
U.S. employees spend nearly three hours every week involved in conflict, which equals a full day of work each month. That’s 2.5 weeks a year spent arguing on the job, instead of collaborating!*
On the flip side, perhaps you tend to run toward conflict instead of away from it. This can create a whole other set of problems. People may not feel comfortable bringing up issues to you. This can create unhealthy relationships and power imbalances at work.
So, how do we become more comfortable with the fact that conflict is going to happen but can be healthy? Or how do we soften our approach to create more genuine relationships?
First, we must learn the basics of communication. In this Lunch and Learn, we will talk about what communication is and how to do so more effectively. We will also look at common conflict styles and how they may create more problems instead of solving them.
You may never feel fully comfortable addressing problems at home or at work, and that’s okay. Perfection is never the goal. Instead, focus on improving how you communicate with your loved ones and co-workers. You can’t avoid conflict. But you can learn how to listen fully and communicate with respect and care.
Looking forward to learning together on Thursday!
* Workplace Conflict and How Businesses Can Harness It to Thrive. Available at