Conflict Resolution

Courtesy of bestteambuilding.com

Prepare


There are many crucial skills that dictate the effectiveness of conflict resolution. Among these, timing is one that is easy to study and implement.


There is an maxim that goes: Praise in public, criticize in private. I am not sure who attributed but I believe that it conveys an important principle of conflict resolution. I think it is important to resolve conflict to a private situation in which those parties directly involved in the conflict are the only that are involved in its resolution--except in the case when a third party moderator is needed.


Consider the following as another aspect of the importance of time in conflict resolution:

"While most studies on peaceful settlement of disputes see the substance of the proposals for a solution as the key to a successful resolution of conflict, a growing focus of attention shows that a second and equally necessary key lies in the timing of efforts for resolution."

It is important to view conflict resolution as one that must occur at a "ripe" time. Some aspects that may constitute a "ripe" time are:

• When passions have died down
• After both sides have had time to more fully consider their situation
• When there is adequate time to fully address the issue. Attempting to come to a hasty resolutions can often exacerbate the situation at hand.
• Awaiting a time when the discussion can occur in private
• Allowing time for both sides to collect their thoughts and truly understand the position, attitudes, thoughts, and ideas that they want to convey
• In cases when one party is at fault, allowing time for the spirit to work on the individual can make a huge difference

There are likely more situations that can help time be "ripe" for conflict resolution but I think the principle skill that needs to be developed is a) being able to identify when a ripe time for conflict resolution is and b) being able to have the self control to wait for that time.

Pounce

I practiced and applied the principle of proper timing in conflict resolution with my little sister this past week. The details of the situation are somewhat personal but essentially, there was a minor conflict within my family. Allowing tension to remain unresolved in family relationships is extremely difficult for me so I wanted to immediately "fix" the problem but I had to use restraint and wait for the "ripe" moment in order to resolve the situation. Currently, the situation in only partially resolved by the timing is not right yet so I will continue to excercise control, patience, and try to be sensitive for the right time to completely resolve this conflict.

Present

I taught what I had learned about this principle to Rachel Smith and explained to her the situation in which I implemented this skill.