It seems that an inability to handle conflict holds work groups back from developing into high performing teams. Avoid the conflict and we all stay friends… and we don’t say what we mean or present opposing views.

Our intention of pushing back is to provide the best ideas not put down the person we disagree with. We are entirely separate from our ideas. They come and go. We don’t.

Try framing your opinion as ‘ I see that your idea has merit and can see ways it could be even better’.

The ‘storming’ phase of a team’s development is essential and messy. Imagine never having any resistance to any suggestions made at a team meeting. You either have the wrong people present or the people present are reluctant to speak up. Either way, the ideas coming from the meeting will be mediocre at best.