A Roadmap for Resolving Conflicts: The Five-Phase Model

Facing conflict without a structure is like entering unfamiliar territory without a map.

To guide a conversation from initial tension to constructive agreement, a five-phase model can be used to bring order and clarity to the process.

This method serves as a roadmap for transforming confrontation into collaboration.

Phase 1: Diagnose the Root Causes of the Problem

What appears on the surface of a conflict is rarely the real cause; it's usually just a symptom.

It's critical to go beyond immediate complaints to uncover the underlying interests, values, or needs that aren't being met.

The essential question in this phase is: What really matters here?

Phase 2: Articulating Your Perspective Assertively

Once you understand your own need, you must communicate it without generating a defensive reaction.

The "I message" formula is ideal for this: "When [describe the objective event] happens, I feel [express your emotion], because [explain the impact on you]. What I would like to propose is [suggest a solution]."

This method focuses on your personal experience, which is indisputable and much less confrontational.

Phase 3: Listening with Empathy to Understand Their Reality

This phase requires a shift in focus to the other person. The goal is to actively listen to genuinely understand their point of view, their feelings, and their motivations.

Use tools like paraphrasing ("If I understand you correctly, what you mean is...") to check that you have understood correctly.

This not only prevents misunderstandings, but also makes the other person feel validated.

Phase 4: Collaboratively Co-create Solutions

With both of your perspectives on the table, the next step is to brainstorm together.

The goal is to look for creative options that can meet both parties' needs as closely as possible.

During this brainstorming, no proposal should be judged. This collaborative approach changes the dynamic from "you against me" to "us against the problem."

Phase 5: Establish a Concrete Action Plan

Once a solution is chosen, it is crucial to