In this episode, we continue our exploration of difficult conversations—this time, moving from conflict to courageous collaboration. We break down the stages of conflict, the power of self-awareness, and the role of courageous conversations in restoring relationships. Tune in to learn how embracing discomfort can lead to deeper connections and lasting change.

Key Takeaways:

• Difficult Conversations Are Not Always Calm - Many people believe that resolving conflict requires calm, emotionless discussions. In reality, conflict often involves emotional highs and lows. It’s normal for conversations to escalate before resolution happens.
• Understanding Your Conflict Style - People handle conflict differently—some react immediately, while others need time to process before responding. Recognizing your style can help you navigate disagreements more effectively.
• Unspoken Feelings Can Lead to Escalation - Holding in emotions instead of addressing them can intensify conflict. In this case, withdrawing created distance between two colleagues until it was finally confronted. Naming emotions early can prevent misunderstandings.

• Restoration Comes After Resolution - The final stage of conflict is healing. Once both parties feel heard and understood, trust can be rebuilt. This process takes time but strengthens relationships in the long run.

Helpful Resources:

• Turning Points Lead to Resolution - Sometimes, an outside perspective can shift how we see a situation. Reflection helps soften our approach and makes room for healing conversations.

• Courageous Conversations Require Responsibility - Owning your part in a conflict, without excuses, builds trust. The “five-step apology” framework—acknowledging impact, expressing understanding, sharing your feelings, stating your commitment, and defining boundaries—can lead to real resolution.

Notable Highlights:

"Conflict has an escalation phase.”

"Taking responsibility for your contribution to a conflict, without excessive justification or excuses, is a courageous step toward resolution."

"Conflict can shift into collaboration when both parties recognize each other’s lived experiences and start discussing the future instead of dwelling on the past."

"Once resolution happens, healing can begin."

"The climax of conflict isn’t always a big blowout. It can be a series of tense conversations until something shifts."

"Compromise and resolution conversations are what restore trust and safety in relationships over time."

"In high stress, we often default to survival responses from our past trauma and upbringing—no matter how much work we’ve done on ourselves."

"We must have compassion for ourselves when we fall into survival responses. We are not perfect; we are human."

"Even when harm is done, it can be mended. It takes courage and a willingness to be responsible for one’s actions."

"At least one person must step up and lean into discomfort for resolution to happen."

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Hosted by: Dr. Maiysha Clairborne

Communication is the foundation of everything and everything happens in communication. If you’re ready to take your communication to the next level, our Communication That Transforms course dives deep into creating psychological safety, handling crucial conversations, navigating conflict, and cultivating trust in a way that truly leaves the people in your life feeling seen, heard, respected and valued. It will transform how you lead and how you show up in all of your relationships . Learn more and register at www.mindremappingacademy.com/ticc. If you are a leader and your employees or teams are struggling with team dynamics, consider taking them through our new “Communications That Transforms” group cohort.

See the full course breakdown and get a free preview of key modules to experience the value. Go to https://mindremappingacademy.com/course-catalogue and schedule a call with Dr. Clairborne at www.mindremappingacademy.com/corporate-programs