In today’s fast-paced world, it’s common to feel inundated and believe we’re incapable of handling our daily obligations. Stressful circumstances can arise both in our professional and personal lives, making it challenging to navigate conflicts in high-pressure environments. This course provided participants with the opportunity to explore tools for managing and overpassing conflict and stress through theoretical concepts and practical exercises.

The new edition of the course “Stress and Conflict Management: the way to resilience and satisfaction​” took place in Tenerife from 20/3/2024 to 22/3/2024 The participants came all together, with Katrín, Jónína, Ástríður, Jonina, Adalbjorg, Sigridur, Johanna, Sigridur, 
Thrudur, Svandis, Inga, Gudlaug, Kristjana and Hrafnkatla from University of Iceland in Iceland.

​During the initial session, attendees engaged in group brainstorming sessions into the concept of stress.
Moderate levels of stress can yield positive outcomes, motivating us to reach our objectives or meet deadlines. Participants learned to differentiate between detrimental Distress and beneficial Eustress. Throughout the course, they acquired an array of cognitive and behavioral strategies, to enhance their organizational and time management competencies, while exercises such as controlled breathing, muscle relaxation, and visualization were practiced to raise stress resilience.

Empathy emerged as a principal theme in conflict resolution discussions. Demonstrating empathetic responses can be challenging, particularly when we haven’t directly experienced another person’s emotions. However, empathy is a skill that can be improved, and participants gained insight into distinguishing it from alternative responses.

​Effective communication is imperative for conflict resolution. Participants explored diverse communication styles and engaged in group exercises where each member contributed to resolving a conflict scenario. Despite the challenges of conflict resolution, the activity  highlights its potential for personal and professional growth. This approach is transferable to various settings, including workplaces and classrooms.

Given the diverse cultural backgrounds of the participants, the course promotes meaningful exchanges and opportunities for shared learning. Individuals possess the necessary tools to navigate stressful situations and highlighted the potential for positive outcomes even amidst conflict.

Discover more about this course here.