Common Ground Resolutions

Giving and receiving apologies is such an integral piece of breaking through conflicts and moving forward. When an apology is given, often the other person is expected to accept it as it is presented. But have you ever stopped to consider the authenticity of that apology?

Does the apology you've given or received sound like ? :

- "I'm sorry, but you did.... "
- "I'm sorry if you see it that way"
- "I was only joking"
- "I'll apologise if you do"
- "I regret that it happened"
- "You know I didn't mean it"

If so, then it may be a conditional, "read-the-fine-print" apology.

The most genuine and sincere of apologies:

- Take ownership of the role you play in the conflict
- Acknowledge the hurt caused to the other person
- See it as an opportunity for change and to learn from mistakes
- Are actually remorseful
- Are given freely, without conditions

A real and heartfelt apology doesn't actually need many words, or big grand gestures. But it is ALWAYS followed up with positive action to repair the damage caused.

As a parent, going through separation can be really draining and emotionally painful.

As a parent, you of course want to support your children through this difficult time and minimise the impact for them.

But remember, you cannot fill from an empty cup. It's vital that you receive the very best in support, empathy and understanding in order to pass this on to your children.

I offer parenting support through separation, one-to-one and in group programmes. If you'd like to have me in your support circle, head to www.commongroundresolutions.ie for more info about how we can work together.

Is mediation possible in separations where domestic violence has occurred ?

While many people will believe it's a definite NO, the truth is that there isn't a one-size-fits-all.

What matters most is that the CHOICE is there for you - the choice to determine the outcomes and the future that YOU want and need.

Parenting teens can be a challenging time, as they grow they often appear to 'detach' from us as parents while they discover their OWN identity.

Conflict with teens is completely normal- and can be a really good thing! Teens need this conflict to assert some control and independence in their lives.

TOP TIP: When communicating with your teen, try to use the 2:1 principle. This means trying to listen twice as much as you speak.

Did you know that I'm a trained youth worker as well as mediator ?
Follow for more parenting tips or drop me a message if you'd like to discuss working with me 1-1

We all experience disagreements in our day-to-day lives, but real conflict rarely 'goes away' without :

1. Acknowledging that the conflict exists (face the elephant in the room)
2. Having open and deliberate communication
3. Allowing the opportunity for ALL points of view to be heard, understood and
respected
4. Compromise, cooperation and collaboration
5. Trust.
6. A willingness to seek and find solutions that are mutually acceptable

Without these steps, conflict can escalate, leading to further damaged relationships, stress, anxiety and even lengthy legal battles.

Mediation can :
* Be more cost effective and time efficient
* Be empowering
* Help you to resolve conflict on your OWN terms
* Strengthen and foster positive communication and relationships

- Choosing a Mediator's Institute of Ireland (MII) Accredited Mediator means choosing a high standard of skill, training and professionalism. All MII Mediators adhere to the Institute's Code of Ethics and Practice, and commit to regular supervision, peer learning and continuous professional development.

***PLEASE NOTE that only Mediators who have completed specialist Training for Family and Separating Couples can mediate for separation/divorce. ***