What is the root cause of conflict?

Tim Ferriss and Claire Hughes Johnson discuss that one root cause of conflict often lies in patterns of behavior and a lack of self-awareness. Claire emphasizes stepping back and analyzing the situation from a broader perspective, a concept from adaptive leadership known as viewing from the "balcony" versus the "dance floor" 1.

She suggests using the "five whys" technique, a method that involves asking "why" multiple times to uncover the deeper, underlying issues of a conflict. This approach can often reveal issues such as poor communication, assumptions, and unacknowledged personal biases. Claire also highlights the importance of an agency mindset, where individuals take responsibility for their actions and work relationships, rather than adopting a victim mentality 1.

In essence, conflict can often stem from unaddressed interpersonal dynamics and a lack of self-awareness, which can be mitigated by fostering accountability and a more nuanced understanding of one's actions and their impact on others.