Profiles In Leadership - Taking The Right Steps

The study highlights that avoiding conflict creates ripple effects that erode trust, reduce accountability, and cultivate a culture of disengagement. Leaders who need to confront issues directly risk allowing minor misalignments to develop into significant organizational inefficiencies, which not only affect team performance but also undermine the leader’s credibility. Reflecting on this, I am reminded that leadership requires courage and intentionality. It demands the ability to approach conflicts constructively, fostering environments where transparency and trust take precedence over the fear of confrontation. While conflict may be uncomfortable, addressing it proactively strengthens relationships, enhances collaboration, and drives sustainable results. The lesson is clear: the true cost of avoiding conflict is the loss of opportunities to build trust and achieve alignment. As leaders, we must embrace conflict as a natural part of growth and approach it with empathy, clarity, and a commitment to resolution. Leadership offers no shortcuts, and neither does it address its challenges.

Resource: The cost of conflict avoidance. (n.d.-b).

http://www.norskstyrebase.no/uploads/9/4/6/7/9467257/0 05_cost-of-conflict-avoidance.pdf

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