Being able to navigate relationship conflict is essential to happiness and success in life.

Conflict often indicates a struggle or a state of opposition. Because many girls and women are uncomfortable with disagreement and seek to “people please”, they perceive conflict as a negative. Of course, conflict can be uncomfortable and even ugly at times but it doesn’t have to be… if you understand how to have healthy and productive conflict.

It’s a simple recipe:

Say how you feel.

Ask for what you need/want.

Remember to check your emotions at the door (if possible) and remain calm.

Here is an example: “I am feeling left out by my friends and I would like to spend more time with them. I’m afraid I might lose them.”

No one can argue with how you feel. It is always okay to ask for something (in my book).

You might have to spend some time understanding your emotions and motivations beforehand so you can communicate what you want/need clearly.

Let’s teach ourselves and our daughters how to have healthy and productive conflict. It’s a great beginning to label conflict this way and let others know this IS a possibility.

 

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Licensed counselor and founder of Girls Stand Strong Michelle Kelley, LCSW, helps girls and women of all ages develop and improve their self-image, self-esteem, relationship and communication skills, emotional understanding, coping skills, the ability to handle difficult situations and people, and resiliency to create a brighter, better and more successful tomorrow. For more information about Michelle’s coaching and counseling services, call (703) 505-2413 or email michelle@girlsstandstrong.com.