Stoic principles and conflict resolution strategies to resolve inner and group conflict.
A healthy relationship with the self and solid working relationships with others is NOT built on a conflict-free existence, but one that is rooted in a desire to solve, or at least reduce, tensions for all those involved. The Stoics taught that the best way to address conflict was through dialogue: the Socratic dialogue to be exact. This method employs a series of questions to identify a person’s values and beliefs, including those that are contradictory, inconsistent and/or which lie at the heart of the conflict. The Socratic method is used to help participants improve their critical thinking skills and challenge their assumptions. The process triggers a productive discomfort with the aim to stimulate an openness to dialogue that would otherwise not occur, allowing a mutual understanding to develop.
Conflict is a frequent occurrence among humans, but it does not have to be detrimental. In fact, when managed appropriately, conflict can be used to advance understanding, strengthen relationships and lead to innovative ideas that work for everyone’s benefit.
At Wisdom Unlocked,we work to engage with participants in ways that enable them to explore, without fear or anguish, the possibility that they may be wrong. We dedicate time to teaching them how any problem can be reasonably viewed from more than one perspective. Our sessions are focused on identifying and potentially implementing positive resolutions to various personal issues and group dynamics. Our teaching is directed towards highlighting the importance of context and nuance to curb the human desire to blame and shame. We also emphasize the power of taking responsibility, regardless of whether or not we believe we are at fault.
Upon completion of this course, participants will be better at:
- Critically examining their ingrained and habitual ways of thinking and acting
- Approaching conflict with an open mind and can-do attitude
- Reflecting and re-examining their own position and that of others
- Taking responsibility for their thoughts, actions, and attitudes
- Safeguarding themselves against faulty thinking and the blame cycle
- Weaving insights into conflict resolution
- Recognizing and overcoming detrimental self-imposed limits and mistaken beliefs
- Harnessing their thoughts to gain autonomy over and, eventually, master their own mind
Bespoke sessions for individuals and groups are available on request. Please contact us to inquire about how our program might benefit you and/or your organization.
Photo credit: Toa Heftiba