SAmeer pArikh

It is almost inevitable to be confronted with some form of conflict in our everyday lives, be it in the workplace, at home, or even in public places. While it does seem ideal for us to try and avoid such conflicts, it is next to impossible to do so in the real world. We could be facing a conflict while driving on the roads, purchasing goods from a retailer, parenting our children, interacting with our partner or spouse, or of course at the workplace with our colleagues or bosses. Instead of escaping such conflicts, it is important for us to keep in mind the following points on how to manage such conflicts better in our daily lives across myriad settings:

One of the first things to keep in mind while dealing with a potentially conflictual situation is to avoid making assumptions. Instead, be willing to engage in a conversation and talk about the issue, in order to gain perspective about it and be fully informed.

Often, two (or more) parties engaged in dealing with a conflict may not even be defining the same problem, and are addressing the situation from two separate angles, thereby making a conflict resolution practically impossible!

Whether it is the need of the situation, or what you or the opposing individual(s) are needing from the particular situation; it is essential to recognize these crucial aspects in order to

A COllABOrATive APPrOACH is NeeDeD, iN WHiCH BOTH PeOPle COOPerATe TO uNDersTAND eACH OTHer’s CONCerNs

AND PrOBleMs