The Art of Conflict Resolution - Part 2

In this episode, we continue to discuss the art of conflict resolution…

This is part 2 of this topic. Check out part one for more related content!

"An eye for an eye will only make the whole world blind." – Mahatma Gandhi

Book recommendations mentioned in this podcast: (affiliate links):

1. Emotional Intelligence 2.0 (Travis Bradberry) https://amzn.to/3zpEoo0
2. Relational Intelligence (Dharius Daniels) https://amzn.to/3Zx32xt
3. Never Split The Difference - How to negotiate like your life depends on it (Chris Voss) https://amzn.to/3nA3qhk

Developing strong conflict resolution skills is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment and fostering positive relationships. Here are 10 tips to help you improve your conflict resolution skills:

1. Stay calm and composed: Approach conflicts with a calm and composed demeanor. Maintaining your emotional balance will help you think clearly and communicate effectively.

• Proverbs 15:1 - "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

Address conflicts promptly: Don't allow conflicts to fester. Address issues as soon as they arise to prevent them from escalating and causing additional problems.

• Matthew 5:25 - "Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge..."

Practice active listening: Give the other party your full attention and listen carefully to their concerns. Show empathy and avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions.

• James 1:19 - "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry."

Use "I" statements: Express your feelings and concerns using "I" statements instead of blaming or accusing the other person. For example, say "I felt hurt when..." instead of "You hurt me when..."

• Ephesians 4:29 - "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Seek understanding: Strive to understand the other person's perspective and feelings. Ask open-ended questions to gain clarity and encourage open communication.

• Proverbs 4:7 - "The beginning of wisdom is this: Get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding."

Focus on the issue at hand: Avoid bringing up past grievances or unrelated issues. Concentrate on resolving the current conflict and finding a mutually agreeable solution.

• Philippians 3:13 - "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead."

Be open to compromise: Be willing to make concessions and find a middle ground that satisfies both parties. Recognize that you may not always get exactly what you want, but a compromise can still lead to a positive outcome.

• Philippians 2:4 - "Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Use assertive communication: Clearly express your needs and expectations without being aggressive or confrontational. Practice using a confident tone and non-threatening body language.

• Ephesians 4:15 - "Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ."

Maintain a respectful attitude: Treat the other person with respect and avoid using derogatory language or personal attacks. Show appreciation for their point of view, even if you don't agree with it.

• Peter 2:17 - "Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor."

Reflect and learn: After resolving a conflict, take time to reflect on the experience and identify any lessons learned. Consider what you could have done differently and how you can improve your conflict resolution skills in the future.

• Proverbs 19:20 - "Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end, you will be counted among the wise.”