A disagreement may seem like a threat to relationships (at work or home), but it’s actually an opening to…
Casey’s eTip: Use Conflict to Improve Relationships
To ignore friction is inviting–why risk an emotional scene or bringing dissension out into the open? In reality, disagreement is healthy and inevitable. Silence, meanwhile, is what creates or deepens a rift. That’s fine if you’ll rarely engage with the person again. Other situations cry out for an open, honest, listening-based conversation:
* When you work with someone every day and/or the relationship matters deeply to you
* The tension between you and the other person is obvious and/or you’re walking on eggshells
* The area of contention represents a meaningful point of difference about goals or values
Talking open-heartedly together about the issue and about you two can handle disagreements builds trust and safety in the relationship. The initial friction becomes a blessing that affirms your respect for each other.
This eTip brought to you by the Communication/Relationships link in your Productivity Chain.
(Photo: Ivan S from pexels.com)