Written by: Robin Currie
Boston Tea Party, an engraving in The History of North America, a 1799 book by William Cooper
“Mediation and reconciliation work is about a profound quest for justice and social transformation. But at the same time, they are about service, solidarity, about exploring and rediscovering the human spirit that has been lost or shattered through human conflict, cruelty, ignorance and greed.” Hiskias Aseffa
Conflict Resolution is a new segment in The Currie Leadership Model. To address the increased social clashes, and even violence occurring within dealerships, I’ve studied the complex and highly effective work of Dr. Aseffa. His numerous accolades and honors make me feel small, and so isolated in my little corner of the world.
Inspired by this man’s work, I’ve begun to examine some of the problems that dealership clients have brought to my attention. On a global scale, war and violent events are usually caused by the combined effect of economic imbalance and political corruption. But how does that translate to rivalry within a corporation?
- Silo mentality
- Industry cycles
- Complicated pay structures
- Scorekeeping
- Declining service mindset
These items are sometimes lurking as possible issues that are contributing to rising struggles between associates. In our current emotionally charged political environment, economic uncertainty, and division between demographics, the national circumstances most definitely align with disagreements and infighting within our business environments. But our approach to resolution is in need of change.
Education, empathy, emotional intelligence, and reverting to a better orientation toward serving may be the paths that will help us remediate growing tensions right in our own professional spaces. These are extensive topics in The Currie Leadership Model. Some of the conflict material includes the work of Hiskias Assefa, Myers-Briggs Conflict Style Assessments, and other resources.
The Currie Team looks to directly influence conflict at the dealerships by addressing specific factors, even using the Currie Model as a tool to balance and eliminate silos. And we use principles such as The Enneagram.
Interestingly, my Enneagram result is 9: The Peacemaker. As a long-time advocate for vulnerable populations, I feel strongly connected to the work of managing interpersonal crises with organizations.
Join us in February for the kick-off of The Currie Leadership Model 2026.