Learning to De-EscalateSample

At Work

Workplace conflicts are often fueled by deadlines, budgets, egos, and differing opinions. I’ve worked in advertising my entire career, an industry where ego can lead to dark places. If you’re not careful, you can be drawn into situations that harm relationships or even end careers.

If you’re a boss, imposing your will without consideration damages trust and morale. People want to follow leaders who are kind and respectful. Treating colleagues with respect, even when it’s undeserved, reflects God’s grace.

Joseph exemplifies this in Genesis 50:20-21:

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.”

Jesus challenges us to love not only our friends but also our enemies, as seen in Matthew 5:43-45:

“You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

In my experience, de-escalating fosters a positive environment. Kindness is infectious. Do you want to be the person who starts that chain reaction?