Conflict Resolution at Work for Dummies®

Chapter 19. Ten Things You Can Control When You're in an Unresolved Conflict

In This Chapter

• Looking at your responses to conflict

• Emphasizing the positive

• Focusing your energy on what's important

Finding resolution is ideal, but what do you do to maintain your sanity when a conflict drags on? If you can't count on others to work with you to resolve the problem, look for things you can control. Finding the power to change what you can provides relief and comfort during a difficult time. Plus, it gives you something positive to focus on!

Your Plan for the Future

Consider what's important to you and follow a strategy for a period of time that feels comfortable. Your plan may include leaving your current work environment, either through a transfer within the company or by leaving the company for good and moving on. Or you may decide that staying where you are is the best thing to help you reach your goal for a secure retirement, or continued health benefits, or a shorter-term benefit like a good letter of recommendation. Whatever the choice, decide when, why, and how you'll approach your plan. Knowing what you want your future to look like helps you look past the current situation and focus beyond temporary problems.

Your Perspective

It's easy to get so wrapped up in a conflict that you lose all perspective about the situation. This is especially true when the conflict is at work and you're experiencing it every single day. Dealing with a persistent difficulty can become the routine — until ...