We’ve all been there. That conflict at work or with a family member seems to spiral out of control. It’s hard to know what to do in those situations, and often things can get worse before they get better. This blog post will discuss seven tips that can help resolve conflicts and de-escalate negative situations. These tips have helped me in the past, and I hope they can help you too!
Understand the source of the conflict
It’s essential to have a fundamental understanding of the issues at hand. You need to know what the problem behind the problem is. By understanding the source, you can develop a plan to resolve it.
For example, often, when spouses argue over household tasks, the problem isn’t the task itself but the behavior around it. If you have children, you might have an issue with chores not getting done. The issue isn’t the chores but the lack of effort in completing them.
Once you understand the source, you can start to communicate more effectively.
Talk it out
Communicating effectively and respectfully with the opposition is crucial to resolving the problem or problems at hand. Communication is not just about speaking to each other. It is learning how to listen to UNDERSTAND instead of listening to prepare your response.
Brainstorm Solutions
When both parties feel like they are being heard, it’s easier to come to a resolution. Both parties can avoid having the same argument again by working together to solve the problem.
Choose the best solution
Not all solutions will work for every problem. You need to find the solution that fits best for your situation. The chosen solution should be realistic for both parties to live with.
For example, if you’re arguing with your spouse over who does the dishes, a possible solution could be that whoever cooks dinner doesn’t have to do the dishes.
Use a third-party mediator
Sometimes it is hard to work together when conflict is present. It is best to include an unbiased third party to mediate and moderate the discussion when this happens. A mediator can help keep emotions in check and prevent the situation from escalating.
Think outside the box
When you feel like you’ve tried everything, it’s time to get creative. Sometimes the best solution is one that neither party expected. Be open to new possibilities and don’t leave anything off the table.
Have emotional integrity
When you’re in the midst of a conflict, it’s easy to say things you don’t mean. It’s essential to have emotional integrity and stick to your values. Don’t let the situation get the best of you. It is necessary to remain calm and in control of your emotions in any situation. When you act out of anger, you are more likely to worsen the situation. It’s okay to feel angry or frustrated, but don’t let those emotions take over. Be honest about how you feel without being disrespectful. Keep your emotions in check and work to solve the problem together.
Conflict is inevitable, but that doesn’t mean it has to be negative. You can resolve disputes and de-escalate negative situations by following these seven tips. The next time you find yourself in a heated discussion, take a step back and try one of these tips. You might be surprised at how well they work! Thanks for reading! I hope this was helpful! If you have any other tips or tricks for resolving conflict, please share them below!