Conflict- referring to some form of 'friction'.

A statement or action expressing disapproval or objection to something.

When the beliefs or actions of one or more members of one group are unacceptable to one or more members of another group.

Conflict can occur in every relationship you have, as well as that internal conflict we can have within ourselves.

Conflict is not necessarily physical and may also prove positive, as it may spark a catalyst for change.

I'm fortunate I get to work on all sorts of interesting projects, unraveling and dealing with conflict and not just the kind that ends physically.

One particular project I'm working on, focuses on managing issues you may face whilst speaking to a hostile audience or individual. Including how to spot potential issues, how to respond to and how to diffuse aggressive behaviour.

Understanding body language, how words are used or can be used to incite or provoke and how we could or should react safely.

I watched a small protest. The two parties appeared and set up. The banners and flags on both sides unfurled. It was a small group of people on either side, so the 2 dynamics were clearly visible.

With an equal number of police and security standing in the middle, the protest had a rhythm. The volume and adrenaline rose accordingly, the event seemed to boil down to:

1. who had the biggest flag

2. who could shout the loudest

I watched as the police and the security team calmly and quietly held back both sides as the chest bumping and the volume of slogan shouting increased.

Neither side was listening to what the other had to say.

Then the heavens opened and the rain bucketed down in full force.

And just like that both groups of protesters stopped dead, packed up and left.

 #theselfdefencecoach