Topics
Making sense of a conflict
Our mental models are the explanations and pictures we naturally construct to make sense of the world. This “invisible architecture” of the mind guides our perceptions and interpretations, our insights and blind spots, shaping our view of the problem.
Improving communication
Excellent communication involves taking in, processing, and understanding others’ signals, not just effectively conveying our own. We disagree better when we attend to sending and receiving skills and habits.
Boosting emotional agility
The best conflict resolution skills are ineffective if we can’t access them when we need them most. Emotional agility helps us think clearly and maintain our balance in order to put our good skills to use.
Refining the process
Good problem-solving process is like a reliable GPS, orienting us, guiding us around obstructions, and helping us reach our destination safely. We disagree better when we have a coherent way to gather information and navigate the conversation.
Sustaining the connection
The “space between” is the figurative space between people. Conflict and friction can damage the space between, but there are approaches that will buffer vital personal and work relationships from the harmful side effects of conflict.