ESL Discussion

    Losing  friends is about as easy as making friends if you don't know how to deal with anger and conflict. Conflict is part of eveyone's life.It will show up at school,at work and at home. It's OK to feel angry, frustrated , annoyed,disappointed or sad . These feelings are natural, but it's how you deal with  them that makes the difference. Some people scream, shout, swear, call people names , try to hit the person who has hurt them. Others do their best to keep away from disagreements but very few deal with conflict  successfully.

Resolving conflict is a step process. Before you start discussing the problem, cool off, count to 10 , take a deep breath and imagine a relaxing place. Then, say what's really bothering you, but watch how you express yourself. Don't blame or accuse . Share how you feel by using "I" statements."You are always bossing  me around," but "I feel frustated because you don't pay attention to what I think."

You want people to hear your opinion so make sure you practise what you preach. Listen carefully to the other person and accept that he or she might see the problem in a different way. Be flexible and open - minded, willing to apologise,forgive and move on.

Match the words/ phrases in bold to their synonyms.

finding a solution,appear,angry,order around,discouraged , hold responsible, willing to ,change, course of action