(no subject)
Conflict.
Why it happens?
Lack of openness. Lack of respect. No clear discussion. Body language. Disagreements through media, ie. Text, dry erase, sticky notes.
Conflicts are inevitable.
Both sides expressing these differences is a healthy process, it allows for growth and relational development.
“I’m upset, so I’m gonna tell you how I feel”
Without those kinds of confrontations of expression, a relationship will not survive and it will guarantee unhappiness.
Going Back - Differences
We all need to understand that you are a product of your environment and culture in which you were raise. It makes you who you are. Since it cannot be changed, it must respected!
Respect - Keep some degree of confidentiality in order respect yourself and the lives of those around you. Therefore, no disputes in public. Don’t involve those around you, it will only make the problem harder to solve.
Don’t practice avoidance, practice apologies.
Know when it’s time to be mature. No one wants to be wrong, but its ok to disagree, acknowledge any misunderstandings.
Listen to one another. Acknowledge and reflect when listening. “What do you mean by…”
“I understand your viewpoint”
Be genuinely empathetic.
You really do want to see both sides.
Do not criticize the person, criticize the behavior.
Be clear and specific.
Avoid saying, “You always” or “You never”. Nothing is absolute.
Be hones. Interaction is worthless if you don’t say what you really mean.
Use respectful language. Verbal - no yelling, put downs, or interruptions. Nonverbal - no finger pointing or eye rolling.
Don’t ask why someone did something.
You want you to express how you feel about what happened. When you ask why you highlight a person’s inadequacies.
All action cannot be justified
Be committed and understanding.
Don’t use confrontation to vent, use it to create an open and honest relationship.
Build cooperation and develop understanding.
Communication is truly key.
You will never get this off the ground, Christen. Especially when you don’t practice what you preach.
Love the Communication major who used to believe,
Christen Henry