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How to get through family conflicts during lock downs, home isolation, travel bans and working from home


In these unprecedented times of lock downs, working from home and travel bans, most families are now pushed into new situations that they have to get used to. In a globalised world where we are required to travel frequently; either domestic or international; many of us have developed a healthy balance of when we are apart and when everyone is back home. The Corona Virus has now forced many of us into new situations where suddenly the whole family sits together every night for dinner. In the long term this new situation can lead to new family dynamics and will require some sound negotiation skills.

Here are some tips that might help get through these times with your family intact.

1)     This is new situation for everyone, try and look at the issue through the lenses of the other party. Do this by asking questions that reveal why this is an issue and/or why this is important.

2)     Separate the issue from the person, never make anything personal.

3)     Stay calm and never argue; you won’t win an argument in a conflict.

4)     Be aware of your tone of voice, never shout, never sound confrontational

5)     Avoid using the word ‘You’ as this can come across like an accusation.

6)     It is not about winning it is about finding a solution that fits both parties.

7)     These situations are loaded with emotions, now try and take the emotions out!

The outcome should be that both parties are satisfied and able to work or live with what has been decided. This is about solving conflict and coming to an amicable solution.


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