As individuals in this very large and diverse human family we experience things differently. When differences cause unresolved tension, we experience conflict. Actually, conflict is a natural outgrowth of human interaction and is not inherently a bad thing. The problem is that most of us have not learned how to handle conflict constructively. Many of us have been conditioned to either avoid it or to hit it head-on, aggressively. The good news about conflict is that it creates the opportunity for individuals and groups to learn new information and new perspectives and understand each other better.

            In the workplace many conflicts can be resolved by truly listening to each other and finding common ground.  This approach avoids  the resentments and passive resistance that occur when opinions are not heard. Instead, everyone becomes a stakeholder in the outcome. This also transcends adversarial win/lose forms of decision-making by creating win/win decisions that serve the good of all concerned. This workshop teaches the skills and communication strategies that transform conflict.   

Focus points:  

	learning active listening skills
	identifying the underlying interests to meet true needs
	surfacing what is hidden
	exploring creative solutions for mutual gain
	building a spirit of community and teamwork
	creating wiser decisions through wider input