humor in conflict

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How Lincoln Inspired Harmony Through Alternative Dispute Resolution and Humor

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How Lincoln Inspired Harmony Through Alternative Dispute Resolution and Humor

One of the most notable U.S. presidents is Abraham Lincoln. While he was best known for freeing slaves and leading the country out of the Civil War, what most do not realize is that he was a lawyer who literally discouraged litigation. He apparently also could relieve tension by cracking a good joke. It is powerful to imagine how Lincoln inspired harmony through alternative dispute resolution and humor.

President Lincoln was perhaps most famous for signing the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, which on paper gave slaves their freedom. Lincoln also led the nation through tumultuous civil war and post-war reformation periods. 

Many agree that his leadership dramatically changed the trajectory of the nation for the better. Beyond abolishing slavery, Lincoln’s dedication to the law and what we now call alternative dispute resolution (ADR) has paved the way for more peaceful means of resolving conflict. 

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Five Hacks for Managing Your Anger in Conflict

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Five Hacks for Managing Your Anger in Conflict

A client recently asked me for some strategies to engage in conflict without appearing angry.  As I’ve said in previous articles, it’s no secret that most people fear conflict and will go to great lengths to avoid it.  Managing our anger can be challenging at times.  Most people either become defensive or worse, they’re boiling internally while trying to appear calm.  Skilled mediators develop practical strategies to avoid being pulled into the emotional whirlpool of our clients’ conflicts.  

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Best. Gift. Ever. (In Three Words)

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Best. Gift. Ever. (In Three Words)

My kind and patient husband and I continue to learn each other’s love languages, the constant care and feeding of one another, how we each deal with stress, etc.  This was a busy week for us both. We were gone last weekend and leaving town again this weekend. Between clients, I’m running errands for my business as well as my personal life.  Scheduling appointments, painting a bedroom, planning travel, managing my staff, running to meetings, and so on, is exasperating. Stressed, exhausted and under pressure, I catch myself straying from the advice I give clients on how to manage stress-related conflict.  I used to think love alone was the key to successful relationships, but I’ve changed my mind. It starts with three little words.

 

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