What to Do About Workplace Conflict

Tension crackles in the air. Arguments ignite. Passive-aggressive comments pierce through conversations.

Workplace conflict is an undeniable reality.

A staggering 85% of employees grapple with conflict in some shape or form (1).

This is where I come in.

Clients frequently turn to me for guidance in navigating workplace conflicts.

Now, let's be clear. I'm referring to the everyday messiness of human interactions.

➡️ If you find yourself in an unsafe, abusive, or toxic environment, seeking help and support to determine your next steps is crucial. ⬅️

So, you find yourself entangled in conflict with a colleague or supervisor.

Your first instinct is to escape, to flee the stress that consumes you.

Did you know that a startling 44% of people admit to losing an hour or more of productivity each day due to stress? (2).

You start scouring job boards, meticulously updating your resume.

You desperately search for external solutions.

But here's the truth: the answers you seek don't lie outside yourself.

Sometimes, finding another role might be the best option.

But merely switching jobs without learning how to navigate conflict or process your emotions won't bring about true change.

It's merely a temporary fix. As the saying goes, "Wherever you go, there you are" (3).

If we embrace the discomfort of conflict and learn to work within it, we can take advantage of opportunities for personal growth. We stop questioning ourselves and our perspectives.

Start getting curious about your thoughts and the underlying reasons behind them.

So, when you encounter familiar characters dressed in different attire, you can confidently declare, "I've got this."

You don't have to love the conflict, but you don't have to run away from it, either.

Imagine how much would change in our world if we need how to work through conflict. 🤯

When we delve into the connection between our thoughts and actions, we discover that we can learn how to shift how we feel by re-thinking our thoughts.

Remember, our brains prefer the familiar (He's always so moody. She's so difficult. They never want to find a compromise) even if those thoughts are less desirable.

It won't always be easy, and it won't happen overnight. But by acquiring new tools, fostering curiosity, and practicing mindful management (growth mindset anyone?), you can transform your reality without abandoning your job.

Here's to possibility.