Many conflict-resolution professionals stress the value of…
““Many conflict-resolution professionals stress the value of curiosity, accompanied by active listening. Many conflicts can be avoided or de-escalated if the parties involved are willing to set aside their prejudgments—and the intense feelings connected to them—and ask a question. And then be curious about the actual answer. Not just any question, though. The question should be genuine and open-ended, a serious request for more information about another person's feelings, intentions or motivations. It should not be a choice between predefined alternatives, or an accusation followed by a demand for a response. It should be, as much as possible, unburdened from what you think will be the answer. That means being curious about what it really is.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Curiosity and active listening help prevent or calm conflicts by encouraging genuine, open‑ended questions without judgment.
In simple terms: Being curious and listening reduces conflict.
Key Takeaway
Ask open‑ended questions and listen fully.
Themes
communication
conflict resolution
empathy
mindfulness
Mood
thoughtful
calm
Type
advice
instructional
When to use this quote
- team meetings
- family disputes
- customer service
- mediations
- negotiations
Key Concepts
active listening
open‑ended questioning
non‑judgmental stance
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you practice non‑judgmental listening?
- What open‑ended question could you ask in a tense situation?
A Different Perspective
May be hard to stay truly non‑judgmental when emotions run high.