Confrontation is arguably something we should all have some sort of familiarity with. Whether you’ve had to confront someone over something or someone has confronted you, it’s a concept that has significant relevance for a lot of us.
Considering how prominent confrontation is for so many of us, I find it interesting that it is widely feared and most of us try to avoid it. I recognize that it can be uncomfortable and awkward to call someone out on a fault, but I think we need to collectively make an effort to acknowledge that confrontation does not need to be as painful as we make it out to be.
I don’t believe anyone loves confronting someone about an issue at hand, but I do think the task can be carried out in a respectful, proactive manner. Granted, the severity of the confrontation depends on the severity of a given situation, but in most scenarios, it can be done calmly and cooperatively.
When I have to engage in confrontation, I try my best to remain neutral. By neutral I mean I avoid picking sides, as this can complicate the matter, but I also try to remain neutral towards the person I am confronting. Avoiding making assumptions and judgments about the person beforehand can help to resolve the issue quickly, and it can limit the amount of tension in the room, too.
I also try to remain positive. Commencing a confrontation with aggression or anger won’t help myself or the other person involved, and while it can be difficult to keep a cool head, it really is an effective practice when it comes time to have a conversation about a problem.
Confrontation is almost inevitable in life, therefore it makes sense to understand how to go about it in the best way possible. Doesn’t it?
ontheedgeofeverything 