We all experience confrontation in our lives. Every human interaction that we engage in, has to some degree, the potential for confrontation or conflict. Whether it's asking your professor why you got three points off on the short answer section of the test, or asking the woman on the bus to remove her purse from the adjoining seat so you may sit down. We have to, in our daily lives, ask for what we want and clearly express what we need -- so that others may understand and help us.
I think it's fair to say that most people do not enjoy conflict, or those awkward and tough conversations. I personally, dread them. Disagreements with friends and family give me so much anxiety! As much anxiety as that gives me, thinking about a conversation in which I have to share my innermost feelings, thoughts, and desires gives me even more anxiety.
It's extremely difficult to say what you really feel. To be honest, and sincere, and steadfast in what we want. It's so extremely intimate to share with others what you need and want. As hard as it is, it must be done.
What I have learned is that absolute worst strategy -- is to avoid these conversations we don't want to have. To let our fears and anxieties brew within us, getting to the point where we eventually erupt. Usually at the most inopportune moments. So you have to just power through and do it. Give yourself that pep talk and do it.
Once you find yourself in said uncomfortable or tough conversation, the best thing to do next -- is be honest. It really is true that "honesty is the best policy." Once more people learn to actually say what the feel and mean what they say -- the whole world might be less confusing. I mean this entire concept might very well be the ultimate key to life! If we all were more honest with ourselves -- and with others. There would be less conflict and tension. No one likes to talk about the bad stuff, or the scary stuff. So when we do have to talk about it-- it works best if you're open and if you're concise. No fluff and no nonsense. Have the talk and be done with it. All people need to understand is how to communicate what they need and want for others to understand. To have the hard conversations and survive them, it starts with being honest with what we want. Let's all start there.
