Unveiling Conflict Avoidance: Navigating Relationships and Self-Discovery
Conflict avoidance sounds simple, but it can present in not-so-obvious ways until we bring our awareness to it. Maybe it’s within a friendship or relationship, or maybe it is the conflicts we face within ourselves.
•ignoring the problem(s)
•making assumptions
•procrastination
•inability to respond directly or in-person
•hiding behind the screen/social media
•passive aggressiveness
•over-indulgence as a form of avoidance and/or numbing (alcohol, video games, etc.)
•actively avoiding someone’s presence
Relationships help us connect to others, but ultimately, ourselves. They help support us as we grow and evolve. Sometimes, we outgrow relationships or friendships—and that can result in its own form of conflict avoidance. Which is why it is so important to learn how to communicate our needs, desires, feelings, and boundaries.
We’re not automatically equipped with the “right” answers or even a guarantee that our conflicts will be resolved through communication. However, we all share the human need for connection. To be heard, understood, and seen.
Conflict resolution might not lead to a final answer (it might be the beginning of several conversations), but it will support us in our journey for human connection. It’s evidence that someone cares enough and is mature enough to bring the more uncomfortable and uneasy conversations into discussion. It’s a step toward inner peace.