Conflict, to me, is when emotions escalate to a point where productive communication breaks down. It’s the red zone on the spectrum of emotional states, where stress responses like fight, flight, or freeze take over. I’d rather not let things get to that point.
That doesn’t mean I avoid confrontation. Disagreement is a normal and necessary part of human interaction. If you’re always agreeing, it’s worth checking whether you’re over-prioritizing harmony at the expense of authenticity.
I value discussions where we address discomfort, name our boundaries, and work through fears or unmet needs. These conversations can be intense, but they don’t need to tip into conflict. When we stay regulated, grounded, and curious, confrontation becomes an opportunity for growth and understanding, not a battle. The key is knowing the difference between confronting an issue and getting stuck in conflict—and choosing to stay in the zone where connection remains possible.