This June, I’ll be in Orlando leading a 4-hour pre-conference workshop at the SHRM Annual Conference, the largest gathering of HR professionals in the world. (Oprah’s keynoting this year, and I’m excited!) My session is called “From Fixer to Facilitator: Mediation Skills Every HR Professional Can Use.” And the title says everything about why I proposed it.

Why Handling Conflict Feels So Hard, What the Ladder of Inference Has to Do With It, and How to Find Your Best Way Forward

Master emotional intelligence conflict resolution with our 2026 guide Learn proven EQ strategies to resolve disputes, build trust, and create lasting success

Why do so many high-stakes conversations end in frustration or silence? A communication breakdown can happen to anyone, especially when emotions run high and emotions run higher when things really matter to us. Yet, conflict is a normal part of all relationships—at home, at work, and in healthcare. This guide explores the real reasons why communication and conflict resolution often fail, from our biological stress response to emotional triggers that escalate difficult conver

Conflict is a normal part of life and shows up most when we are growing or facing change. It signals that something needs our attention, whether at home, work, or in our communities. Many people try to avoid conflict, but this can be just as harmful as letting it escalate. Conflict itself is not the enemy—it is a sign that something is no longer working and needs to be addressed. The real challenge is preventing conflict from turning into something destructive.

Imagine trying to resolve a heated disagreement at work or facing a family rift that seems impossible to mend. In 2026, conflicts are more complex, affecting not just our emotions but entire organizations and family systems. The emotional toll and productivity losses are staggering, with recent studies showing that unresolved issues cost teams and relationships dearly. Mastering psychology conflict resolution is now essential for anyone seeking personal growth and healthy, re