Ten Steps in the Collaborative Style of Handling Conflict
Prague, Czech Republic, June 2003
Whenever we have a disagreement, we must first
acknowledge the presence of the conflict and our share of responsibility
for the disagreement.
We must seek agreement with the other person(s)
as to the exact nature of our conflict.
At this point we must rule out the possibility
that the conflict results from a simple misunderstanding.
If not, we should take the initiative and explain
(reveal) to others that our proposal was made because of certain needs
which must be met for us. We must
state those needs as accurately as possible and be certain that they are
not merely wants. (Wants do not
carry equal weight as needs.)
Ask the other person to share their needs (or
wants) as clearly as you have stated yours.
List the needs of all parties who are involved in
the conflict.
Explore any possible solutions which might
satisfy the needs of all parties to the conflict.
Select the solution which seems to serve best the
needs of all persons.
Agree to support and implement the selected
solution to the best of your ability.
Agree to re-evaluate your solution at a later
date. If the agreed upon solution
does not seem to be meeting the needs of all concerned as well as
anticipated, repeat the first nine steps.
Conflict resolution which is achieved in this manner will foster harmony in the home, the business or the church. It is a form of behavior which is based on scriptural laws. It is the Christian way to handle conflict.
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