Conflict MattersA PRODUCT OF EMERGENT MATTERS

MAKE ROOM FOR A BETTER CONVERSATION

Conflict happens.
What comes next matters.

You don’t have to solve everything at once. Start with where you are.

If speaking openly could expose you to threats, coercion, or retaliation, pause and consider support before planning direct contact. You do not owe anyone a confrontation.

What are you navigating?

No perfect words required. Just a place to begin.

TAKE THESE INTO THE ROOM

Small shifts. More understanding.

01

Separate facts from stories.

“You interrupted me twice” gives you something to discuss. “You don’t respect me” assumes an intention.

Try a different opening

“I noticed I didn’t get to finish earlier. Can I share the rest, then hear your thoughts?”

02

Get curious before responding.

Understanding someone’s perspective doesn’t mean agreeing with it. Make space to hear what matters to them.

Try a listening prompt

“What felt most important to you in that moment?” Then reflect back what you heard and ask if you got it right.

03

Make the next step specific.

A small, clear agreement is easier to act on than “communicate better.” Decide who will do what, and when.

Try a concrete agreement

“Let’s check in for ten minutes on Friday to see whether this arrangement is working for both of us.”