Emotional Regulation Is the First Conflict Management Skill

If you want to navigate conflict more effectively, train yourself to manage your nervous system.

When it comes to conflict, the root cause can often be attributed to a combination of differing priorities and misunderstandings. The challenge is that these are not always obvious at first. To uncover them requires focus, attention, and the ability to think clearly.

The problem is that the discovery process requires tactful skill application and logical thinking, which are extremely hard to access if emotions like anger or frustration hijack your nervous system.

That’s why emotional regulation isn’t just helpful—it’s a foundational skill for conflict resolution.

Create the right internal conditions to better navigate conflict by honing your emotional regulation control through techniques like box breathing, holding your tongue, and desensitization through conflict management exposure role-play.