Negotiate Anything Stop Aiming for Peace. Aim for Good Conflict Instead
Dec 19, 2025
Steve Beck, an organizational leadership and conflict-resolution practitioner, introduces his innovative 'Good Conflict' framework. He emphasizes that mindset—curiosity and humility—outweighs tactics in resolving disputes. Steve explains how to identify desires and narratives that drive conflict, advocating for preparation and practice as essential tools. He shares practical steps for structuring difficult conversations effectively, focusing on accountability and restoration. Prepare to transform your approach to conflict at work and home!
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Early Fieldwork Shaped His Approach
- Steve recalled living in Ireland, Romania, Zimbabwe, and with Bosnian refugees early in his career.
- Those experiences taught him to enter cultures as a learner and cultivate curiosity to build trust.
Conflict Is Inevitable; Skill Matters
- Conflict is inevitable in an interdependent world with imperfect people and differing ideas.
- Aim to develop the skill of having "good conflict" instead of avoiding conflict or treating it as a necessary evil.
Inventory Your Desires First
- Before a difficult conversation, list every desire that might be driving you and the other person.
- Choose which desire you'll lean into so you don't sabotage your primary goal with reactive impulses.