Kites fly when launched against the wind, not with it. The wind creates a type of conflict with the kite, fighting against it which causes lift.
It is the same with many of the conflicts we face at work and at home.
There’s even a word that describes the process of conflict. Dialectic.
One person starts with a position – a thesis. Another, who doesn’t agree, puts forth an antithesis. And it is through continued communication that a synthesis of ideas can be created. As a result, all parties gain.
Do all relational conflicts end in a synthesis? No, but understanding the process and the result that is actually available to you means you can stop defending all your ideas with such ferocity.
Action – Think about a recent conflict. Could you share this idea of a dialectic with that other person? If not, write out your thesis, their antithesis and what the possible synthesis might be.
And next time a conflict arises, be open to the synthesis of ideas that is always available.
(Feel free to share a recent successful synthesis of ideas by leaving a reply in the comments box.)