We all experience relationship conflict with friends, family, and co-workers. Conflict should be expected, but leaving this conflict unresolved is not helpful. Resources including Best Practices and Coaching Videos are readily available for clients.
How to Solve Conflict?
Emily Burt, from the United Kingdom studying at the University of California-Berkeley, wrote these suggestions in U.S. News & World Report:
- Communicate. With your roommate or workplace colleagues, perhaps more than with anyone else. Make every effort to chat and get to know him or her. The more you know each other and find points in common, the easier it’s going to be to learn to share your space.
- Compromise. It’s highly unlikely that the two of you are going to miraculously have the same living and work habits, and a lot of the time you’re going to have to meet halfway.
- Spend Time Outside.Go out to eat, go to a movie, and look for healthy social activities.
- Learn From Each Other. Find out how your roommate or co-worker does things and try to learn and adapt.
Close Friend Conflict?
The answer can be complicated. You may experience misunderstandings, unmet expectations, and personal style or habit differences. Begin by asking questions in an effort to understand the problem and then just listen. Ask for clarification and speak up when appropriate. The issue may or may not be your fault, so be willing to acknowledge either. Ask what you can do to help solve the conflict. What does this person expect? Develop a plan to act on the solution. Communicate regularly to check up and ensure the issues are being resolved.