To Manage Conflict is to Understand it

Conflict by definition is a competitive or opposing action of incompatibles.  Huh?  What does that mean?  Well, it’s not as complicated as it sounds.  Conflict simply put means viewing the same thing from two different viewpoints.  For example, it could be that you and your partner have the same goal; however, the process that you each feel necessary to accomplish that goal may differ significantly. 

But before we discuss more specifically what conflict is, let’s review what conflict is sometimes mistakenly referred to as.  First of all, it isn’t the dislike or disdain for another.  We may clash with one’s personality or may not like the actions of another, but that does not meet the criteria for a conflict.  It is also not, an argument or dispute.  The dispute or argument may be how the conflict is communicated or manifested but it is not the actual conflict.  A conflict regarding needs may not be communicated in an argument; but, may be communicated passive aggressively by talking to others about it and not the person whom you have the conflict with.   

So, what is it that causes conflict in our lives? Well, we often experience conflict in our lives whether at home or work when we have opposing needs, goals, desires, ideas or in the current economic climate – resources.  These are all very important parts of who we are so when we feel that they may be in jeopardy because of another’s opposing view we dig our heels in and stand our ground.  When our perspectives differ the matter at hand is slowed or stopped because of those differing viewpoints.  It’s crucial that we understand what is behind the conflict and how to potentially minimize the effects of it.  Remember, conflict slows or stops what we are trying to achieve so it’s important to discuss intelligently what our underlying issues are so that which was once a conflict can become a catalyst for change!

Thanks for reading!

If you’d like more info on handling conflict in the workplace, register for our upcoming workshop: No More Drama!: How to Conquer Workplace Conflict which will be held on October 27! Hurry and register for our early bird DISCOUNTS!

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Current News: Professor charged with murder in Alabama university shooting

Yet another unfortunate incident of workplace violence. CNN reports that University of Alabama Biology Professor Amy Bishop Anderson has been charged with one count of Capital Murder. According to CNN, Bishop shot and killed three colleagues and wounded three others.

(AP Photo/Huntsville Times, Dave Dieter)

It is not clear what Bishop may have been disgruntled about however News Blaze.com  has reported that she may have been denied tenure but that the University would  keep some of her projects that could be worth millions of dollars. Click here for more on the story.

Thanks for checking out the Workplace Anger Blog brought to you by AidevO People Consulting, LLC!

Video Blog: Keeping Up With The Joneses

This animated video comes from Shannon Munford, anger management expert and owner of Daybreak Counseling Service in Orange County, California. This video is entitled ”Keeping up with the Joneses” it  is the story of an ambitious husband and father who allows the stress of getting ahead to interfere with what is really important. It gives some insight into how the pursuit of money, success and anger can be interrelated. Sound familiar?

Thanks for checking out the Workplace Anger Blog brought to you by AidevO People Consulting, LLC!

New Article!

Here is Neca C. Smith’s latest article, ”Anger Management at Work – Aristotle’s Way“.  Is there a way to be angry in the work place?   This article will give some insight and tips based on Aristotle’s famous quote on anger.

Thank you for checking out the Workplace Anger Blog brought to you by AidevO People Consulting, LLC.