While the Oxford Dictionary defines conflict as a serious disagreement or argument, the Cambridge Dictionary definition is an active disagreement between people with opposing opinions or principles.
I suggest that despite what we have all been conditioned to believe, conflict is not a bad thing. Conflict is neither good nor bad in and of itself. Conflict is merely a difference of opinion. It is also neither inherently violent nor disrespectful. The ways we respond to conflict are the problem.
I take it even a step further and suggest that it is actually an opportunity for innovative ideas and growth. If we can move beyond having to be right or the assumption that only one way is the right way, we can recognize conflict for the positives it can potentially bring. When someone has a different opinion or is operating based on a different premise or principle, discourse rather than disagreement offers the chance to learn a different perspective or build better solutions based on the intersection of different ideas. It can also lead to abandoning proposed solutions in response to exposure of unseen risks revealed through sharing.
The potential for positive byproducts from conflict is infinite. Fear, violence, insecurity, hurt feelings, and broken relationships are examples of negative byproducts.
Conflict is often the genius in the room.
I harbor no illusion that any of us will ever be able to always embrace conflict. I am confident that if we each try to embrace conflict and welcome discourse we will move towards making the world a better place through collaboration, innovation, and personal growth.
For inspiration to move beyond conflict and challenges, I encourage you to get yourself a copy of
Delayed But Not Denied on Amazon
