Sincere Conflict Resolution
An effective approach to resolving difficulties in relationships is based on the sincere mutual understanding of both parties and the proper management of conflicts. One proven method begins with both sides fully opening up to each other, shedding all masks and pretenses. As noted:"When both sides of a conflict are ready to negotiate, it is necessary to remember several rules for skilful conflict resolution. In the book 'Conflict: Seven Steps to Peace' by Charles Likson, the following recommendations are presented:1. 'Remove the masks': the parties involved must be completely sincere, not hiding their true motives.2. 'Identify the genuine problem': it is necessary to pinpoint the real cause of the conflict and strip it of layers of extraneous issues.3. 'Abandon the mindset: "Win at any cost"': such an approach is especially inappropriate in marital conflicts. Besides, conflict is not a duel, and it is not about winning but resolving the issue.4. 'Find several possible solutions.'"(source: link txt)This sequence of actions emphasizes that, first and foremost, one must honestly determine the essence of the problem in order to jointly seek alternative resolutions. Additionally, there is an emotional facet—being unafraid to take the initiative towards reconciliation. As stated:"Another important point: sometimes people, especially the young, immediately reject or react defensively to the advice to approach one another and take the first steps toward reconciliation, considering it useless. But in the vast majority of cases, this approach works very well... Taking the first step towards reconciliation is not a sign of weakness; on the contrary, it is a sign of strength and a noble soul."(source: link txt)An expanded framework from another source suggests the following steps in sequence:- Identify the genuine problem by stripping away unnecessary layers.- Abandon the 'win at any cost' mentality, acknowledging that conflict is not a duel.- Find several possible solutions, discuss them, and select the most constructive option.- An essential element is the ability to communicate in such a way that you are heard, and ultimately, to recognize and preserve the value of the relationship for both parties.(source: link txt)In summary, effective approaches include:1. Sincere communication without facades ("removing masks").2. A deep analysis to identify the root of the problem.3. Abandoning aggressive confrontational behavior and the 'win at any cost' mindset.4. Jointly seeking and evaluating alternative solutions.5. A genuine willingness for reconciliation and the readiness to take the first step.This systematic and open approach not only resolves current difficulties but also lays the foundation for strong, lasting relationships in the future.Supporting citation(s):"When both sides of a conflict are ready to negotiate, it is necessary to remember several rules for skilful conflict resolution. In the book 'Conflict: Seven Steps to Peace' by Charles Likson—with 30 years of practical psychology and mediation experience—several recommendations for resolving conflicts are outlined. 1. 'Remove the masks': participants in the conflict must be completely sincere, not hiding their true motives. 2. 'Identify the genuine problem': the real cause of the conflict must be determined, stripping it of various layers of superficial issues. 3. 'Abandon the mindset: "Win at any cost"': this mindset is particularly unsuited for marital conflicts. Moreover, conflict is not a duel; it is resolved, not won. 4. 'Find several possible solutions.'" (source: link txt)"Another important point: sometimes people, especially the young, immediately dismiss or react negatively to advice suggesting they make the first move towards reconciliation, believing it to be futile. However, in most cases, this approach works very well, as people are often expecting the opposite, assuming that any sarcasm will be met in kind, without expecting an open-hearted and calm discussion about arising issues. Taking the first step towards reconciliation is not a sign of weakness but, on the contrary, a sign of strength and noble character. Do not be afraid to reach out, to show openness and sincerity towards others. Only our pride can obstruct this." (source: link txt)"17. 'Identify the genuine problem' - it is necessary to determine the real cause of the conflict, stripping it of extraneous layers. 18. 'Abandon the mindset: "Win at any cost"' - this mindset is especially unsuitable in marital conflicts. Besides, a conflict is not a duel; it is resolved, not won. 19. 'Find several possible solutions' - in any conflict, multiple resolutions are possible. They should all be discussed in order to have options. 20. 'Evaluate the options and select the best one' - it is essential to choose not only the most constructive option but also the one most acceptable to all parties. 21. 'Communicate so that you are heard' - the primary tool in resolving a conflict is effective communication between the parties. 22. 'Recognize and preserve the value of the relationship'." (source: link txt)