It is typical to want to avoid conflicts in the workplace as much as possible. But every known literature on the subject indicates that it is a mark of a healthy workspace to accommodate some form of conflict. Every human interaction risk friction; it could be friction of ideas, or friction of characters. And the best way to win is to master the art of converting every conflict into gold.

In a vast range of literatures, conflict within organizations is discussed under two main theories: traditional theory considers people involved in conflict as trouble makers, while modern theory considers conflict as a natural inevitable outcome of human interaction. In fact, conflicts within organizations have been known to generate new ideas and desirable changes, when viewed from the modern theory worldview.

Thomas Chung and Rich Megginson are famous researchers on the subject, and they are once quoted as saying “conflict is the struggle between incompatible or opposing needs, wishes, ideas, and interest of people”, and this about sums it up. The incompatibility of our needs, wishes and ideas are the real reasons behind conflicts, and managing this effectively is the beginning of transforming conflicts.

Three quick steps to transforming conflict situations are below:

First, analyze the real reason behind the conflict. Is it ideological? Is there a need the opposing party is troubled about? Is there a wish that is being sort after? What is the real reason? Identifying this will easily stop you from making the conflict a person attack.

Next, empathize. Empathy enables us see the issues through the lens of the other party. The fresh perspective empathy gives us will smoothen the edges of conflict engagements.

Finally, build. A healthy conflict should always birth something new; something from the mix of both ideas or both interests. Many times, too, a good conflict will result in a fresh view on the ideas of the other party, and the willingness to let yours go. Either way, something new is born.

Friend, conflict is inevitable, and knowing this saves you from the trauma of tip-toeing at work. Embracing the inevitability opens you to seeing the power you have to turn every conflict into a golden opportunity for growth. Yes, you have that power, use it today.

I keep rooting for you. Cheers.