Post #3

Post #2

Resolving Interpersonal Conflict

Having conflict between people is a fact of life and it is not always a bad thing. In fact, a relationship with conflict may be better than one with no observable conflict. When conflict happens, it might strengthen or weaken the relationship. Therefore, this is why conflict plays a critical role in the course of any relationship.

Consider the following scenario:

Jim and Robin were my best friends in my secondary school clique. Due to a misunderstanding caused by a third party, they had been waging a cold war with each other for 2 years. This had been a big problem for our clique when arranging for meetings and outings.

Jim, in particular, was more persistent in the cold war. He would insist that he would not turn up for any meeting whenever Robin was present. On the other hand, Robin was more willing in trying to make this friendship between Jim and him to work out. However, there was very little Robin could do as Jim would rather shut him out whenever he tries to start a conversation with him.

Two more years had passed and we decided to go on a trip together as a clique (consisting of 6). We think that this would be a good time for both of them to bond together. We thought that with more people around, it would be less awkward for the two to start talking directly to each other.  Thankfully, Jim was much more receptive this time round and he agreed to come for this trip together after our persuasions.

However, at the last moment before we set off, the other 2 of my friends were unable to make it for this trip. That leaves only me and my other friend, Chris to be on the trip with Jim and Robin.

This puts me in a dilemma. As the leader of the clique and the organizer of this trip, what should I do to make sure this trip is enjoyable for all? How can I create some chances for Robin and Jim to interact again? And how can I possibly minimize any misunderstanding that could be generated in the course of this upcoming trip?

Post #1

Why Effective Communication is Important for me.

To me, effective communication is vital in establishing a good relationship with people. People relationships are the most valuable asset to lead a satisfying life. Be it, work or family related, communication is the key to success in these areas. For instance, in a relationship between a parent and child, words of concern are often regarded as a nuisance to the child. The consequence is that it might lead to fewer interactions. The child is no longer comfortable sharing information with his or her parents as they may appear to be discouraging or strict. Gradually no communication would be present between the two; they would rather go to their peers for opinions. Thus, with a more effective way of communicating, it would be able to eliminate this problem.       

Effective communication is important because it helps to avoid misunderstanding. Without it, messages might not be conveyed accurately and it might be misinterpreted, causing unnecessary mistakes and distress. As everyone may have a different perspective due to our difference in socialization, experiences, beliefs and cultural differences, it is important not to be ethnocentric. We should not judge others by our own yardstick. To prevent misunderstanding, it is important that we have to consider the specific audiences while preparing our message to them. For example, my new domestic worker is a foreigner, she is not aware of the culture practices that most Chinese families do not sweep their floors on Chinese New Year as it might sweep away all the ‘fortune and luck’. I had personally explained and instructed her on this issue to prevent any unnecessary misunderstanding in my family.  

To lead a fruitful and harmonious life, effective communication is very important to me.