Conflict resolution scenario planning
TYPE: GUIDED EXERCISE; ORACLE CARDS
Below is a set of scenarios that you will use in this activity. Read through each one and then follow the instructions.
Individually
First, reflect on the following scenarios individually. In your journal, write or draw your responses to the prompt questions:
How would this make you feel? What emotions might arise?
How might you respond?
Is there support or help you could ask for from your co-lead?
Do you tend to fight, flight or freeze?
You can write your responses, draw them, list them or create a visual mind map depending on how you respond to them and what works for you creatively.
ADDITIONAL REFLECTION WITH THE CARD DECK:
Look at the cards and choose one that speaks to you visually as you consider the questions. Read the description of the card and reflect on how the visual and description relates (or not) to your gut reaction to the question.
Together
Then share your responses with each other.
Did you respond differently? Did your co-lead respond how you expected them to or was there something surprising?
Are there ways you could support each other? Are there additional considerations for you each as individuals for certain scenarios?
SCENARIO EXAMPLES TO BUILD OUT:
Your co-lead gets invited to speak at a conference. It will be an important platform and networking event, with travel to an exciting place that neither of you have been to before.
Your co-lead receives some challenging feedback about you from someone you manage. They share it with you in one of your regular catch ups.
There is a limited professional development budget and both you and your co-lead have different ideas about how you want to use it.
You have experienced a loss in your family and need to take compassionate leave. You need to hand over a critical piece of work to your co-lead. It is something that is really important to you.
You are struggling to make a decision on whether to accept funding from a new donor. You and your co-lead disagree on the way forward. They wish to accept the funding and you are more hesitant.
ADDITIONAL REFLECTION WITH THE CARD DECK:
For each scenario, draw 2-3 oracle cards from the deck to guide a conversation about the directions the scenario could take. With your co-lead(s), share your perspectives and directions that your interactions with the scenario could take.
