PART V

RESOLVE CONFLICT

When trouble happens, your heart hurts, your body rebels, and even your best friends tire of your complaints. You can’t get work out of your head. It’s time to clear the conflicts.

Odds are things won’t go as planned. Even the most mission-driven organization has a simmering stew of misunderstandings. The more you care, the more heated things can seem. Sure, you’re aggravated. You’re likely not alone.

A foundation of respect, trust, and generosity prompts everyone to assume best intentions. In reality that’s often not enough. When emotions are high, things get complicated. This part helps you contribute to the solution by remaining curious and bravely labeling your own errors or limitations. Responsibly sharing your feelings reveals commonalities among colleagues and helps dispel destructive assumptions—bringing people to your side rather than prematurely gearing up for confrontation.

Deep connections are forged from, not in spite, of conflict. Your ability to work through differences allows you to engage a wider set of collaborators and learn more by experimenting with new ideas. Expanding your knowledge and network of relationships gives work meaning and sets you up for success.

This Part Is for You If

•   You crave honesty and the calm that comes with it.

•   You are starting a new initiative within an established organization.

•   It’s time to ask for a raise or new opportunity.

•   You’ve been told that you are the problem.

•   The processes and procedures you put into place aren’t working.

•   There are too many meetings and memos.

•   Emotions are at a fever pitch.

•   People are afraid to say what they really think.

•   Cliques are forming; gossip is increasing.