When most people think of conflict, they picture a couple arguing or perhaps even a physical altercation such as a fist fight. But this type of conflict is not the only kind that a story can have, and the best stories often feature both internal and external conflict.

Conflict is an essential element of any story that wants to excite, engage, and leave a lasting impact on readers. It forces characters to confront opposing elements and, through their struggles, make choices that lead to different plot points and other conflicts.

In genre writing, the main character’s conflict is often an arch-villain that works against them, but in general the antagonist can be anything that thwarts their main desire. This conflict can be from inside or outside the character, such as a love interest or coworker or something as simple as a storm or a disease. The stronger the conflict is, the more three-dimensional your character will be and the more the reader will be enthralled.

The most important thing to remember about conflict is that it cannot happen without opposition. Without conflict, there is no tension in a story and no reason for the audience to care about the protagonist’s struggle. For this reason, it’s vital to have the conflict tailor-made for the protagonist’s goal and to increase its intensity with time.

Whether it’s an internal or external struggle, conflict must be a core component of any story that hopes to keep its audience engaged. A strong conflict can help a character grow, learn, and move on from their past experiences. It also makes them more relatable to the reader, as they will see their own challenges in the character’s journey.

Conflict can be difficult to create, but it’s worth the effort for any writer. It’s the best way to add depth to your story and ensure that it stands out from the crowd.

Pay attention to employee interactions, particularly if a sudden change takes place. Employees may begin to interact differently and show signs of resentment toward one another. This is a key indicator that there is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. Heated arguments, sarcasm and abuse are all warning signs that there is a problem. Also watch for high employee turnover and absenteeism rates as these can be indicators that employees are trying to avoid work situations. If this is the case, it’s essential to meet with the individuals involved and discuss possible resolutions. A successful meeting can result in an effective conflict resolution plan and a positive working environment. This can lead to more satisfied and happy employees in the future.