Productive conflict allows us to get to the heart of the issues, so we can find the truth or the best path forward.
Because conflict can be tense and uncomfortable, we might want it to end quickly. DiSC-wise, S types, and even some i types, find productive conflict awkward at times.
Caving in works. It ends discussion. It lets someone else have their way. Things get more comfortable more quickly. But that’s short-term thinking.
I succumbed to this once, when I was part of a hiring process (read about it here).
Consider this – the short-term pain avoidance comes at a cost:
You lose the possibility of finding a better path forward.
You give up the chance to expand your comfort zone by pushing yourself.
And, most damaging, you create and/or reinforce unbalanced and unhealthy power dynamics in your relationships with your team mates.
What to do?
When you have an idea that no one else is verbalizing, and it may stand contrary to others, speak up and say it.
The search for truth needs you, and you will serve your team better when you do.
This is the 3rd post in an 18-part series discussing what not to do during conflict situations. Effective leaders avoid portraying these 18 behaviors during conflict and address them in others. Follow along as we explore the negative impact of these behaviors, and what to do instead.
Post 1: Leaders Address Arguing During Conflict
Post 2: Leaders Address Belittling During Conflict
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