In the many minor (and sometimes a few major) disagreements and conflicts at work I have found that it is best to take a breather before tackling the situation head on. Some of the strategies we learned this week have given me new ideas on how to go about dealing with these conflicts. I've been reminded that it's important to consider all perspectives and not just my own. I also want to keep the 3 R's in mind (respectful, reciprocal, responsive) when I interact with colleagues, especially in a situation that involves conflict or a disagreement. If I think of the 3 R's before dealing with conflict I think the entire situation will pan out differently. I need to remember that it is not my goal to win each argument or to be right all the time; my goal is to form meaningful relationships with those around me.
A lot of times I go to my supervisor/center director for advice when dealing with conflict. She was actually my hockey coach in high school and I got to know her well then. It was nice to come to a new place of employment where I knew no one else and know that I was able to communicate with her and be understood since we had established a relationship years before. One thing that she always reminds me is to look at the big picture. We have no idea what the other person is going through even though they may try to explain it as best they can. We can try to understand but will never completely understand the emotions involved. I try to keep that in mind as well when dealing with conflict.
Hi Amanda,
ReplyDeleteIt is good that you have a shoulder to lean on at work. Getting sound advice is always important.Through the NVC principles I learned that I have to be more aware of the feelings of others as well as learn to focus on the topic and not on my own feelings towards the topic of communication. Many times we let our own assumptions and biases get in the way of seeing things logically and fairly.