About Mediation
I have found that the mediation process is non-threatening, non-judgmental, and a safe place for people to meet to resolve their issues. It is an opportunity for people to find their own resolutions and take responsibility for their actions. As a mediator, I deal with the process; the disputants deal with the content of the dispute. Not only do the participants find a great deal of satisfaction in resolving their own conflicts, but I find a great deal of satisfaction in assisting them.
The word mediate is an intransitive verb meaning to work with both sides in a dispute in an attempt to help them reach an agreement. I have dealt with hundreds of mediation matters, sometimes one-on-one or with groups of 15 or more individuals.
Some of the comments made at the end of a mediation process are:
- I feel better going to work
- My family life is much better
- I don't take my conflict home
- I am much happier
- I can trust again
- I now try to find a way to forgive
- I would like conflict resolution training
We have so much stress in our lives. Using conflict resolution skills, in both our personal and workplace relationships, can greatly reduce conflict, ensuring that our daily lives are more productive and meaningful.
Some of the conflicts I have handled are:
- Marriage
- Family matters
- Friendships
- Work-related issues — power imbalance, trust, disrespect, communication
- Racial
- Community
- Businesses
- Large Groups
- Labour Unions