Seven Tips for Managing Yourself During Conflict
- Remember that people (even you) are rarely as benevolent as they perceive themselves to be.
- Remind yourself that others are rarely as evil as their opponents perceive them to be.
- Be aware that people rarely spend as much time thinking about the issues as believed.
- Realize that the behaviors of others are rarely planned or thought out. Most aspects of conflict spin off other events and are not the result of cold-hearted calculation.
- Almost all behaviors are motivated by positive intention. Frequently these intentions are to take care of and protect themselves.
- Previous patterns taint present perceptions. Every conflict has a history that extends beyond the present.
- Go to the balcony and observe the interactions within the group whenever you have difficulty remembering any of the above.