There are a few things in life that are inevitable: getting older, getting a job and conflict. Sorry to say, there is no way to avoid conflict. Just when you think things are on an even track, someone will get in your face and bang…conflict. No matter your age, you have a developed a way to deal or not to deal with conflict. My two children could not have been any more different in their ways of dealing with conflict. My son would argue until both of us were blue in the face. My daughter would go up and hide under her bed. It’s funny, because they still have the same basic models that they use for dealing with conflict even though they are now 33 and 29 years old respectively. I’m going to tell you that the model you developed to survive as an eight year old is not necessarily the best one to serve you as an adult. I also want to say that fear of conflict is greatly overrated. Conflict resolution can be a freeing and empowering experience. You just have to remember a couple things. Winning a conflict is not the most important thing. Listening to opposing views and expressing your views clearly are the most important things. Giving respect to someone you differ with will always pay off in the future. It may even pay off during the conflict. Next time you are in a conflict, and that could come soon, be respectful, be honest and be responsible for what you say. That way everyone will win.