Have you ever complained about a person, group, or business? Or heard through the grapevine that another spoke ill of you? How does it feel to know someone else has the inside scoop on your personal conflict?
When we start sharing our disputes outside the individuals or groups of people involved, conflict may take on a life of its own. Sometimes people involved in the dispute may no longer talk. In certain scenarios, dialogue may only occur through attorneys. Communication breakdowns happen in business matters, family relationships, organizational challenges, real estate transactions, eldercare planning and other times of disagreement. Lacking the ability to converse constructively, folks may begin airing personal grievances very publicly.
Long-term consequences may not even be considered when taking action to address conflict. However, the personal satisfaction of mudslinging wears off rather quickly when people hear their worst moments discussed formally and publicly.
Would you like to feel better about how you handle conflict? Your future self may greatly appreciate the choices you make today.
Mediation allows you to air your grievances privately and clarify needs, consider options, and create ideas for conflict resolution in a confidential setting. A mediator, trained in facilitating constructive conversations and alternative dispute resolution, may also help you save time, money, and emotional energy.
