“When individual disputes flare up our default tendency is to assume the other party is at fault or even that they are ‘bad or mad’, simply because they disagree and irritate us. Although this attitude may soothe our fragile egos, behind this deluded thinking is a belief that there is nothing for us to learn or correct and we miss an opportunity to recognise our blind spots. So, before leaping to conclusions that may only exacerbate matters, first consider your own part in the circumstances and the larger context. Are they saying something that you do not want to hear? Are they saying something that needs to be addressed? Do you fear they may expose you in a bad light? Take the time to discover where the other person is coming from, discern their motives, be curious about their ideas and have the maturity to consider opposing views without feeling threatened.”