healthy conflict is more about you than them

As certified confrontational person, I find it funny that people take conflict so seriously. Maybe this is a holdover from my depressed days, but truly nothing is ever that serious. We’re all a bit frivolous in our beliefs, grudges, and perspectives. I think recognizing that while demonstrating the frivolity authentically (and respectfully) is key to leaving a conflict or discussion more resolved.

Obviously conflicts are multi-party affairs, but we can only control ourselves and our reactions. I also think that healthy approaches to conflict can be contagious, as long as you’re resolute in that. Irritation is inevitable and best let out in small controlled doses so that we don’t blow up our lives and relationships.

In that same vein, we have to extend some grace to the people we want in our lives. The best thing about growing up with siblings is internalizing the fact that someone you love can have terrible opinions. They can also evolve those opinions into something better with time and loving conflict! Better things are possible!