Conflict and I go way back

When I was a kid, I longed for the ability to connect and communicate with people I loved, especially when we disagreed. As much as we loved and supported one another, conflict in our household was emotionally exhausting and rarely useful.

Then I entered the workforce, and quickly realized that we weren’t the only ones. One part of me was relieved knowing we weren’t the only ones but it was small consolation for the idealist in me. Fortunately, I met a few leaders along the way who were good role models. Not only did they have the ability to resolve a conflict, but did so in ways that deepened the relationship and created mutual respect! Witnessing these moments inspired me to learn more and I went on to take many coaching and leadership programs and eventually got a master’s degree conflict facilitation from the Process Work Institute.

 I’ve always understood the power of listening, curiosity, and seeing both sides - relational skills that helped me earn leadership positions throughout my working life, offering me many opportunities to practice my conflict skills. Now I work with organizational leaders to improve their ability to communicate and fight fair.