Keeping an open mind When people find themselves in conflict – perhaps a colleague has raised their voice or made a sharp comment – it’s a natural response to perceive this as a threat.

Handling conflict with boundaries and assertiveness is not always easy, but it is achievable and beneficial. To do so, identify your state of mind, feelings, and needs, and prepare your statements.

Recognize. Some leaders thrive on conflict to the point where they don’t even realize they’re creating it. Others avoid conflict so much that they work in a bubble and think everything is fine.