A professional conflict with a colleague is like 2 sides of the same coin. If both are aiming for a better outcome for their task/work/product, then the conflict will result in a productive outcome if both people are willing to actively listen to the other side. Being polite, calm while communication your thoughts is quintessential. 1. Discuss only when the both parties have had time to cool off and think rationally. 2. Try to find the root cause of the disagreement by "listening" 2. Avoid any personal comments/attacks against each other. 3. Focus on problem resolution while keeping an open mind to other's opinion. 4. Being rigid and stubborn to prove your point is an anti-pattern, try to keep that in check.

In my experience by approaching conflicts with empathy, respect, and a solution-oriented mindset, we can resolve issues effectively.

1) Pause. Reflect on the matter. 2) Assess objectively whether the other party has a valid point. 3) Focus on the issue, not the person. 4)Stay calm. Unless you are able to keep emotions under check, step away until you are able to.

• Assume everyone's good intention. • Approach the conflict and the other person with curiosity and eagerness to understand. • Take ownership and seek resolutions outside of the often binary stances that keeps the conflict alive.

Over the years, I have found myself in situations where conflicts have arisen with my team members and also with team members from a different team. In hindsight, I can confidently say that the following have worked the best for me: 1. A complete understanding of the conflict - what, why, how 2. Trying to understand the view point of the concerned person 3. Pausing before responding 4. Taking time to resolve the conflict 5. Not taking the issue personally 6. Not letting the conflict fade away, addressing it with the aim to resolve 7. Effectively communicating my view point without being resentful, hurt, disrespectful and dismissive of the other person 8. Taking guidance in case, I am not able to see things objectively