When is the Right Time for Conflict?

Conflict is an essential element to a healthy culture. So, when is conflict worth embracing?

In the realm of healthy teams, we firmly believe that conflict is a positive and essential aspect to a healthy culture. Conflict, rather than being feared, can be seen as an opportunity for reconnection or establishing connection when expectations go unmet.

Picture a whiteboard with expectations on one side and reality on the other. The gap between them is where conflict emerges, not necessarily equating to anger but an opportunity to bridge the divide caused by unmet expectations. Conflict, in our view, is a positive force that can be addressed through conversation.

We are going to discuss three key questions: when to lean into conflict, when not to, and how to know if you're ready for it.

Our basic rule of thumb is simple: if you are in a relationship with someone, be it personal or professional, and any expectations are unmet, it's worth addressing.

The key is to clear the air, not necessarily in a heated argument but through a conversation that reestablishes connection.

We emphasize the importance of being clear and specific about the missed expectation.

Vague issues make for unproductive conversations.

Additionally, understanding your emotional state is crucial.

Aim for a balanced emotional window between five to seven, neither too high nor too low.

For those who tend to let things slide, we encourage not waiting too long to address conflicts.

The conversation opener is vital; instead of accusing, start with "help me understand."

This phrase opens the door for the other person to share their perspective and fosters a more constructive dialogue.

The ultimate goal is to create a culture of honor within teams, where conflicts are approached with openness and curiosity.

By following these simple steps, conflicts can be resolved in two-minute conversations, paving the way for stronger, more connected teams.

Here's a link to the live episode. Consider sharing this episode with your team members to establish a common language for navigating conflicts and building a healthier team culture.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or share your experiences. Here's to fostering healthy leaders and teams. Until next time, have a great day!