Conflict as a Creative Force: Embracing Tension for Transformation — Jennifer Jones-Patulli

Brad Hook Podcast

27-07-2024 • 57 mins

In this episode, Brad Hook interviews Jennifer Jones-Patulli, an expert in conflict management and human systems dynamics. Jennifer shares her insights on transforming conflict from a destructive force into a creative and productive one. With over two decades of experience, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge on how leaders can harness the energy of conflict to foster innovation, growth, and strong relational dynamics within organizations.

Key Topics Discussed:

  • How Jennifer developed her unique approach to conflict management
  • Defining and framing conflict within systems- Practical strategies for leaders to manage conflict constructively
  • The role of self-awareness and empathy in conflict resolution
  • The future of conflict management in organizational leadership

Key Takeaways:

  • Conflict is tension in systems and can be directed positively or negatively.
  • Frame conflict as a creative opportunity rather than a threat.
  • Self-awareness and empathy are crucial in managing conflict effectively.
  • Transform assumptions into questions to facilitate productive dialogue.
  • Embrace uncertainty by conducting small, responsible experiments.

Notable Quotes:

  • "Conflict can be an amazing creative force in your life if you engage with it in a certain way."
  • "Conflict is tension in a system… it can be whatever you make it based on how you handle it."
  • "Dealing with uncertainty is about knowing that we can take small, responsible risks, that we can do small controlled experiments that build on each other."
  • "Can you position yourself as shoulder to shoulder with that individual rather than adversarial position face to face?"
  • "The creative potential of conflict… thinking about our long-term relationships and all the things you've been through that have made not only you stronger but us stronger."

Resources and Links:

Books by Jennifer Jones-Patulli:

  • "Reconciling the Carrot and the Stick"
  • "The Essential Mary Parker Follett: Ideas We Need Today" (edited volume): https://amzn.to/4foUG4j

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