Conflict is a natural part of life. Everyone has disagreements, and some are more serious than others. Conflict is also an important element of fiction and nonfiction stories, and it’s important for readers to see characters in conflict so that they can understand the story’s tension and climax. Whether it’s a small tiff between you and your best friend or an international war, conflicts have many causes. They can be caused by the death of a loved one, a sudden change in someone’s job or the loss of a close relationship. The way people react to these changes can cause conflict, and some conflicts are more difficult to resolve than others.

Workplace conflict can be caused by a number of factors, including miscommunication and personality clashes. For example, if a colleague fails to deliver on time-sensitive deadlines, they may become frustrated with their coworkers who are not as punctual. This type of conflict can lead to resentment and can be difficult to address because it often stems from unspoken expectations and assumptions. Workplace conflict accounts for 16% of all organizational issues, according to research by the Harvard Business Review.

Family conflict is another common source of conflict. The arrival of a new baby or the addition of a sibling can cause a dramatic shift in a family’s dynamics. Some other major changes that can cause family conflict include one partner leaving for school or work, the death of a parent, a financial setback, significant weight gain or loss, or the purchase or sale of a home. These types of conflicts can be especially challenging because they’re often emotional and have a direct impact on one’s sense of self.

Personal conflicts can be caused by differences in values, goals, interests, requirements, and understanding. Conflicts may also occur due to a disagreement in the way someone executes a project, their work style, or how they approach their job. For example, Tim and Joe disagree on how to execute a project that is due in two weeks. They both have different ideas, thought processes, and attitudes and are unable to come to an agreement.

Regardless of the causes, personal conflicts are difficult to avoid. However, there are ways to reduce conflict and keep it from escalating. It’s important to be able to recognize the causes of conflict, and to learn how to handle them calmly and appropriately. A person’s mental health can be significantly impacted by a long-term battle with a conflict, and it’s essential to take action before the issue escalates. To prevent conflict, try to avoid arguing with people who have different opinions than you do. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your relationship and use conflict resolution tools like setting clear guidelines for discussion and ensuring that participants are speaking calmly. In addition, try daily stress-relieving exercises to help you relax and calm your mind. Lastly, avoid gossiping or believing negative, inaccurate information. This will help you to maintain your integrity and avoid becoming a victim of a conflict.