Conflict is as natural to the human experience as thunderstorms are to springtime. When left unchecked, conflict can generate discomfort, disrupt interactions and destroy relationships. Discord can lead to poor operations and an uncomfortable workplace. But when differences are openly acknowledged and addressed, conflict can be a powerful source that leads to creative solutions that encourages growth, and strengthens bonds between people.
The world is made up of individuals with unique ideas, wants, needs and beliefs, and conflict may occur when our differences meet. Like so many other aspects of human interaction, it’s how we deal (or don’t deal) with controversy that affects our relationships—with others and ourselves.
Without resolution, conflict may convert to stress. Can you remember working in an environment with a lot of “avoiders”? What if we addressed issues and moved to resolution more quickly?
Resolution comes with the release of fear and tension, allowing space for clarity and remarkably creative solutions or ideas. A feeling of closeness may result or, at the very least, a deeper understanding, acceptance and respect for one another.
If there is a reluctance to engage in conflict resolution, consider the following:
Because people are different, conflict is natural.
It’s more important to find clarity and unity than to be right.
Conflict is about speaking up and telling our truth/sharing our perspective.
There is usually a win-win solution somewhere.
Resolving conflict keeps us from living in fear.
Resolving conflict helps clarify, sort and value differences.
Resolving conflict can bring us closer together.
Resolving conflict is respectful of ourselves and others.
As we head into the final month of the year, are there relationships, situations (or even situationships ;)) that may benefit from a clean up?
When we choose to address the experiences that may be uncomfortable, we create a better working relationship with others and a better workplace vibe for our team. And, let’s remember that often our favorite plant represents liberation. And sometimes, addressing the tricky or sticky stuff allows for the peace/liberation to occur with more ease!
Guidelines to Resolving Stress & Conflict
I rarely hear anyone say, working with cannabis is easy. In fact, in most states there are plenty of stressors while operating in this highly regulated, federally illegal industry. Soooooo, what if we made a commitment to resolve conflict with greater speed and ease to enjoy the flipside- resolution?
Resolving conflict is a commitment to clarity, to listening with an open mind and an open heart, and to respecting and valuing one another and our differences. Here are some guidelines for working through conflicts. In some instances, it may be helpful to have a third person to help guide you through the process.
- Agree to some common courtesy ground rules; respectful tone and assuming good intent for instance.
- Have each person name the issue they are experiencing. Using “I” language here is imperative to avoid “blaming”.
- Own your part in creating the conflict/problem.
- Allow for time/space to ask questions, share thoughts, concerns or considerations that arise.
- Take a break if needed and make a commitment to come back together to create resolution. Sometimes a breather and some “sleep on it” time allows for new openings.
Conflict is natural to the human experience and comes up in even the most fabulous workplaces. The best way to deal with it is to create the kind of connections in which differences are acknowledged and supported as part of the ongoing and spirited process of working together.
Interested in learning more about conflict resolution?
Our leadership expert, John Mancuso holds a supervisory skills course every quarter here at Cannabis Trainers. Attend one of these sessions for even more ideas on how to handle conflict both personally and professionally.
Author’s content used under license, © Claire Communications
