How to Resolve Conflict

There are so many ways to handle problems in this world, and usually countries choose war. I don't want your personal life to be in a constant war. I want you to live free of conflict. Follow my 8 steps to peacful conflict resolution.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• An open mind
• A gracious heart
• Willingness

1. Approach a conflict as early as possible and deal with it appropriately. Dealing with a problem before it gets out of hand is very important. Address all aspects of the conflict openly and honestly, and start your path into peaceful resolution.
2. Set peaceful goals for the conflict. Often times finding common ground can take time, but don't let this process drag on. Give all parties involved a set time for negotiating their own terms, and expressing what they want out of the deal, while respecting everyone else's wishes at the same time. If necessary, dole out consequences for those who do not meet the deadline.
3. Be honest. Honesty really is the best policy. Lay all your concerns on the table, and request that other parties do the same. It may take time to find a common interest or answer to the concerns at hand, but try to be the example of openness and honesty for the group. Others are likely to follow the lead.
4. Try to understand all sides of the problem. There are plenty of grey areas in life, and right and wrong are often times personal perception. Try to see the subject from every persons point of view, and understand any anxieties they may have. That can help you figure out a possible resolution
5. Communicate frequently. Keep open lines for communication, and don't let the parties involved fear or resent you or anyone else. Talk about any distresses and continue to share any new information that may help break through any fear and find a way to compromise.
6. As many a famous man hath said: AGREE TO DISAGREE. Respect the differences of your peers and let people know they don't have to agree with everyone to find a common solution.
7. Let each person involved in the conflict create their own personal solution. Guide them, lead them, provide a safe place for them to express anxieties. But NEVER tell anyone what to do unless it is ABSOLUTELY necessary. If people are able to create their own solutions, they are more likely to be committed to them.
8. Openly discuss differences. Take as much anxiety as possible out of the situation by addressing them openly and often. Secrets lead to fear, omission, and lies. Which all leads to more anxiety and conflict.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep a calm attitude.
• Never invoke fear.
• Provide a rest from stressful debate.
• Never TELL people what to do.
• Never ignore a concern expressed by a party member.
• Never complain.