preventing conflict
Please Listen–A Universal Plea
“Please listen” “Not now” “I need you to listen” “In a minute” “You are the worst parent in the world, you don’t care” (or throws self on floor in temper) One of my earliest memories is tugging at my mother’s skirt, trying to get her attention. I’m sure my kids have similar memories. Sometimes, it…
Read MoreHow To Reduce Misunderstanding
Reduce misunderstanding–is that possible? Most of the conflicts I deal with as a mediator start with a misunderstanding. Even small misunderstandings potentially lead to damaged relationships or breakdowns of communication. Why do misunderstandings occur Our brains are continually trying to find patterns in the world and other people. If we spot a pattern, it makes…
Read More4 Steps to Say No Nicely
When we say no nicely it actually stops destructive conflict. Yet so often we say yes when we know that no is the right answer. Why we say yes when we should say no Sometimes we don’t say no because we fear upsetting others. We say yes without thinking it through. We get in the…
Read MoreConflict Coaching
Conflict coaching helps you to be your best self in conflict and stressful situations. Most people react to stress instinctively or in ingrained patterns learned from their childhood. Are you happy with the way you respond to conflict? Does it give you the results you want? Sometimes, learned responses work in one situation but not…
Read MoreConflict Management Training & Workshops
Conflict Management training?!? Is it really necessary? It is essential. Why is Conflict Management Training Important? Conflict and disagreements are inevitable. The normal response is to fight, flight or freeze. Although useful if facing a sabre tooth tiger, this evolutionary instinct is not helpful in modern-day life. When we choose fighting, running away or ignoring…
Read MoreProcrastination & Conflict: Don’t Delay Decisions
Ironically, my post on procrastination is actually a month late. I blame the flu… I’ve learned the hard way that dealing with things when they show up instead of when they blow up saves untold hassle. Sometimes we don’t decide based on optimism–things will get better. At other times, we delay deciding due to fear…
Read MoreManage annoyances well & avoid major problems
I’ve written before about how random acts of kindness can make a huge difference to others and boost your own happiness. In this blog, I’ll write about how little things can cause big problems. Like a dropped match that lights a wildfire, small irritations, if not addressed, can flare into major confrontations. Manage annoyances well…
Read MoreHow to Manage Anger Well
How should we manage anger well? Should we let it rip? Or shut it down, show self-control? Speak up or stay silent? Both have advantages and disadvantages. Read here about how to decide whether to speak up or stay silent. If we are prone to angry outbursts, we listen to the reasons why we should…
Read MoreGuest Post: Fighting with Your Partner? Better Sleep Can Help
In my blog about boosting resilience, I mentioned sleep as a key factor. Here is a guest post from sleep expert Sarah Johnson of Tuck about how sleep helps reduce conflict. Relationships are full of ups and downs. Arguments are a normal and healthy part of life. However, if fighting has become the most common form…
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