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Leader Quote by Patrick Lencioni

“Therefore, it is key that leaders demonstrate restraint when their people engage in conflict, and allow resolution to occur naturally, as messy as it can sometimes be. This can be a challenge because many leaders feel that they are somehow failing in their jobs by losing control of their teams…” quote by Patrick Lencioni
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““Therefore, it is key that leaders demonstrate restraint when their people engage in conflict, and allow resolution to occur naturally, as messy as it can sometimes be. This can be a challenge because many leaders feel that they are somehow failing in their jobs by losing control of their teams during conflict. Finally, as trite as it may sound, a leader’s ability to personally model appropriate conflict behavior is essential. By avoiding conflict when it is necessary and productive—something many executives do—a team leader will encourage this dysfunction to thrive.””

Patrick Lencioni

About This Quote

Source Book: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni, 2002

Leaders should practice restraint in conflict, letting natural resolution unfold, even if messy, to model healthy behavior.

In simple terms: Leaders must allow conflict to resolve naturally.

Key Takeaway

Model calm conflict handling.

Themes

leadership conflict restraint team dynamics

Mood

thoughtful balanced

Type

advisory reflective

When to use this quote

  • team meetings
  • performance reviews
  • crisis management
  • negotiations

Key Concepts

organizational behavior emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you balance control and openness in conflict?
  • What signs show conflict is productive?
A Different Perspective

Leaders may fear loss of control, leading to avoidance.

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