Conflict in relationships—whether personal or professional—is inevitable. But how we respond to conflict is what determines the strength of our connection, our teams, and our outcomes. In this video, I share powerful insights, including recent research from relationship experts Drs. Julie and John Gottman, to help you stay grounded, emotionally present, and connected—even in the heat of disagreement.
💡 Key Takeaways from Roberta:
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- Be Non-Reactive: In conflict, pause and slow down. Think before you respond. It’s not easy—but it’s essential.
- One Negative = Five Positives: For every negative interaction in a conflict, it takes five positive ones to rebalance. So say things like “Good point,” “I agree with you on this part,” or “I hear you.”
- Show You’re Listening: Use eye contact, calm body language, and clarifying questions like: “Is this what you meant?” or “Here’s what I think I heard you say…”
- Don’t Rush to Problem-Solve: Jumping straight to solutions can make the other person feel unheard or defensive. First, listen. Really listen.
- Take a Timeout if Needed: When emotions run high, our brains get flooded. A 15–20 minute break can help regulate your nervous system so you can come back grounded.
🌱 Why It Matters:
Conflict isn’t bad—it’s a gateway to growth. But it requires presence, patience, and emotional intelligence. Whether you’re leading a team or deepening a personal relationship, these practices can help you turn disagreement into connection.
Watch the full video for more on how to “fight right”—and build trust, even in tense moments.