Resources

From Conflict to Courage: How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading

by Marlene Chism, Oakland, CA: Berrett-Koehler, 2022.

Edwin De Paula, DMin(c), is senior pastor for the Jacksonville and Palm Coast area Spanish-speaking Seventh-day Adventist churches in Florida, United States.

The book From Conflict to Courage: How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading by Marlene Chism focuses on redefining and facing conflict, seeking alignment within, and self-transformation rather than avoiding conflict or changing others. Influential leaders must possess the skills necessary to navigate difficult conversations gracefully and confidently, fostering a positive and collaborative atmosphere within their team. Leaders who prioritize clarity understand the importance of introspection and being aware of the situation they find themselves in. Instead of shifting blame, they take accountability for their actions. They recognize that how they perceive things greatly influences their thought processes. Dealing with disruptive individuals efficiently is crucial for maintaining a productive environment.

The first chapter highlights the signifi-cance of skill development for informed decision-making. It also states that effective leadership requires conflict capacity, active listening, curiosity, and critical thinking over conformity to prevailing opinions.

Chapter 2 explores how identity influences human behavior, especially in social media. People align with various identities such as gender, race, and beliefs, but conflicts arise when people face opposing views. Leaders must prioritize clarity, civility, and curiosity to navigate turbulent times effectively. Chapter 3 focuses on leadership clarity, defining the scenario, articulating desired outcomes, and understanding obstacles to informed decision-making. Empathy is crucial for supporting objectives.

Chapter 4 addresses misconceptions about anger, highlighting self-regulation and navigating interactions with angry individuals. Constructive anger management can drive purposeful actions. Chapter 5 discusses conflict resolution beyond personal clashes, exploring how leaders can influence visible and invisible structures for desired behaviors.

Chapter 6 addresses strategies to handle negativity, excuses, and unproductive behaviors in the workplace. Chapter 7 focuses on navigating difficult conversations effectively. The last chapter emphasizes individual choice, empowering individuals to take control of their lives and recognize the transformative impact of their choices.

Analysis

“Most leaders avoid conflict because they see it as a problem, but it isn’t really the problem; mismanagement is” (4). The preceding statement is in line with the teachings of Jesus: “Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come!” (Luke 17:1, 2, KJV). Good leaders possess the ability to offer clarity amid conflict. Developing these skills should be a top priority for leaders.

“Resistance is the lack of acceptance of what is and the inability or unwillingness to make a powerful choice. We humans spend much of our time resisting by not accepting things as they are” (19). Effective leadership necessitates a blend of self-awareness and a comprehensive grasp of prevailing circumstances. Our viewpoints substantially influence our cognitive processes.

Summary

Leaders ought to cultivate adept conflict management skills to prevent mismanagement. Embracing circumstances and making decisions are central aspects of effective leadership. Blaming others obstructs accountability, while effectively managing disruptive individuals necessitates skillful navigation of difficult conversations. From Conflict to Courage skillfully encourages readers to view conflict as a learning opportunity for growth and wisdom and successfully guides readers to embrace challenges gracefully, navigate transformation, and learn from adversity. Christian leaders can greatly benefit from Chism’s conflict management insights.

Edwin De Paula, DMin(c), is senior pastor for the Jacksonville and Palm Coast area Spanish-speaking Seventh-day Adventist churches in Florida, United States.

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