The Role of Conflict LO9629

jj@wolfe.net
Fri, 30 Aug 1996 10:48:55 -0700 (PDT)

Being a consultant and trainer on conflict issues, I can't help but jump in
here. I'm afraid I missed the first post asking about starting a thread on
conflict, otherwise I would have responded.

Conflict in LO's, to me, is essential. In our workshops we teach that the
purpose of conflict is to learn and grow, and that conflict is created when we
have a lack of security, knowledge, understanding or experience (would you add
more to this list?). It's like a vacuum which nature must fill. A proactive
learner will ask what is the opportunity to learn in each conflict
encountered. Please note, that when I say conflict I don't necessarily mean
negative confrontation. A whole team of people can work together to solve a
problem with production, vendor communication or whatever, and do so
cooperatively and with fun even. The conflict is with the situation, not the
people.

I agree that conflict is inevitable. The unfortunate thing for me is not
conflict, but when people ignore it, don't address it, pretend it's not there
or exaggerate its negative aspects. In my experience the only way an LO can
truly be an LO is if they take the proactive stance toward conflict and seize
the inherent opportunity to learn, improve and grow. Learning is borne of
conflict.

I always liked the practice of saying a quiet thank you (prayer?) to honor
one's opponent since they are the person who helps us face our inadequacies
and learn from them.

Jill

Jill Johnson and Associates, Inc.
Specializing in The Conflict Dojo:
Conflict Management Training based on the ancient teachings of the martial
arts
12932 SE 272 ST, #242 Kent, WA 98031 USA
206-631-0717
206-639-0776 fax
jj@wolfenet.com
http://www.wolfenet.com/~jj/

-- 


jj@wolfe.net
 


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