CONFLICT RESOLUTION & RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT...

… Appropriate Resolutions™ for home, work, community, and everywhere in between.

© 1998-2008 Joseph Ravick  and Appropriate Resolutions™

     Sound too simple and simplistic? Try it anyway next time you observe or experience an increase in stress, tension, or any other clues which might point to a possible escalation. What have you got to lose? And don't forget to 'pay attention' to those subtle clues to do with the communications between you; both verbal and NOT.

 

 Stop…     Break the cycle of escalation by stopping and stepping back from the brink.

 Look…     Record and register (in your mind) what’s really going on with the other person. You can only respond to what you see; really see and observe. If you don’t see it, what can you possibly do about it?

 Listen…   Pay attention passively and actively with all your senses, including the intuitive ones. If you’re not clear about the Whys and Wherefores, take a time-out for de-escalation and reflection. Then, at an agreed-upon time just right to listen and discuss, explore what’s going on between you, analytically. Finally, make sure that all potential options are out there for negotiation. Then, and only then will you be ready to make a deal.

 

Learn to pause... or nothing worthwhile will catch up to you. - DOUG KING

 

The Consequences to Conflict…

 

        ...If un-managed, conflict will…

 

o generate adversarial relationships,

o build up resentment, 

o serve as fall-out on other people and situations, 

o create discontent, griping etc.

 

…If managed effectively, conflicts can…

 

o prevent stagnation and motivate personal growth and positive organizational change, 

o identify and resolve problems before they escalate into more serious disputes, 

o generate group cohesion and improved performance in a collaborative, team-centered environment. In community groups and families, such benefits would also accrue, looking different only in their details.

 

 

Efficient and fair resolution to conflict

is not inevitable.

 

All conflict will be resolved, sooner or later, satisfactorily or not.