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Fast Company Daily

How to take control of conflict so it doesn’t control you

Apr 21, 2025
08:45

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Recognizing that the brain reacts to conflict like a physical threat helps individuals manage their instinctual responses effectively.
  • Cultivating curiosity through open-ended questions and active listening transforms conflicts into productive conversations and enhances relationships.

Deep dives

Understanding Conflict Responses

The brain's reaction to conflict is akin to a physical threat, activating the same neural circuits that handle pain and danger. This response can lead individuals to react with fight, flight, freeze, or other defensive mechanisms, which may hinder constructive resolution. Recognizing these instinctual reactions enables individuals to differentiate between actual threats and discomfort stemming from disagreement. By pausing to assess the situation, one can apply strategies to navigate conflicts effectively, leading to better relationships and outcomes overall.

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