Understanding Effective Conflict Resolution: How we can LEARN from CONFLICT rather than go to WAR
The 'Circle of Perception' is one of many ways in which we can increase our understanding of effective conflict resolution. When we can acknowledge that for all unresolved conflict situations there is not one 'right' view and all others are 'wrong' but there is a circle of perception that surrounds all issues and that the existence of infinite views gives us an opportunity to learn from other perspectives, or perceptions as Alan describes in the video. This gives us the opportunity to see what we can LEARN from conflict, rather than go to war over our different perspectives. When we speak of perspectives it can suggest that a particular view exists but it does not acknowledge that the perception, how it is experienced, interpreted, 'felt' by each person will also be different.

Different meanings can be associated with something that is 'seen' and yet two observers may believe that because they perceive it in the same way that their emotional reactions, the meanings they attach to it and other personal interpretations are the same. And yet they never will be. Each person's perception of the situation will be unique to them.

This can be a blessing or a curse. If we expect that others have the same perception of a situation to us we can go to war with them when they say otherwise. But if we accept always that others will perceive everything differently to us we can see it as an opportunity to gain a wider understanding and learning about any given situation, and so instead of war, it offers a creative opportunity.

Alan Sharland has been a Mediator and Conflict Coach for over 27 years working in a wide range of dispute situations including neighbour disputes, workplace disputes, complaints (NHS, Special Educational Needs, University Student), group disputes and others.

He was Director of a community mediation service in West London for 11 years and now runs CAOS Conflict Management. https://www.caos-conflict-management....

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn:   / alansharland  

If you would like Conflict Coaching via Skype or FaceTime or Zoom, please contact Alan via this webpage: https://www.caos-conflict-management....

Check out and like the Communication and Conflict Facebook page:   / communicationandconflict  

Visit the Communication and Conflict website: https://www.communicationandconflict.com

Books and ebooks:
The Simple Effective Skills of Conflict Resolution e-book https://www.communicationandconflict....

How to Resolve Bullying in the Workplace: Stepping Out of the Circle of Blame to Create an Effective Outcome for All https://www.amazon.co.uk/How-Resolve-...

A Guide To Effective Communication for Conflict Resolution - How Mindful Communication Supports Growth Through Conflict. Purchase the book at this link on amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1790335221

CREDITS
Outro Music: All Colours Pt 6 by Bob Holroyd, from album Hollowman:   / hollowman