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January 10, 2008

 

10 Steps to Resolving Conflict in the New Year

Conflict Resolution as a New Year Resolution

 

By Wanda Harris

You’ve made it to a New Year. You are a year older, a year wiser, and a step closer to great new possibilities. You reflect on the great battles you’ve overcome in 2007 and are determined to start fresh in 2008.  As you start to pen those once-a-year resolutions, you are reminded of the unresolved conflict with your boss, co-worker or spouse, dissatisfaction with your current pay or career status, blurred vision, unfulfilled dreams, and the time restraints that eliminate the pursuit of your greatest aspirations.  Realizing these are all obstacles hindering your success, you decide that now is the time to overcome them.

With broken relationships weighing heaviest on your mind, you choose to make resolving conflict a priority.  You are sure that restoring relationships will allow you to later focus on your secondary challenges, but you don’t know where to begin.  Consider this winning strategy for resolving conflict, while maintaining integrity and progressing to higher levels of moral excellence:

A young executive captured the attention of the CEO of a world-renowned organization.  Despite his loyal service, the President grew jealous of the new executive’s inevitable succession and became obsessed with exterminating him.  However, in the midst of increasing conflict, the executive maintained his commitment to excellence and continued to serve wholeheartedly without retaliation.  He remained focused on his promise of promotion and overcame the obstacle of the attempt on his life.  At times when he grew weary, he sought counsel and encouragement from those he trusted.  Proving his character, commitment and courage, the CEO ultimately appointed him to the highest position attainable.  Through his conflict experience, the young executive (and new President), gained peace of mind and set a standard of submission that continues to stand as a benchmark for leadership success.

You have just read the true story of King David whose life was threatened by King Saul.  There are many lessons we can learn from his journey to the throne.  Below are ten steps David used to resolve conflict and overcome opposition:

1. Acknowledge the conflict situation

2. Recognize when/if you must remove yourself from the situation

3. Lead where you are, beginning with you

4. Be humble, patient and respectful; do not let emotions cloud your judgment

5. Proactively seek common ground for it is a key to successful resolution

6. Seek wise counsel and the encouragement of trusted friends/colleagues

7. Remember your responsibilities; try to keep conflict from hindering your performance

8. When weary, embrace positive affirmations

9.  “Do You,” by defining your gifts and talents and utilize them to serve others

10. Understand that the end does not justify the means

Congratulations, Crowned One! You’ve just embraced a king’s strategy for successful conflict management.  You can discover more about the relationship between David and Saul in The Book of Best Practices, 1 Samuel 16 through 1 Samuel 31.

Learn more about restoring broken relationships, defining your purpose, and pursuing your passion with In the Midst of It All: How to Manage Conflict with Grace and Win.  Get your copy today and begin making your obstacles your vehicle for success!

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