Differences and Disagreements

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A difference is a divergence in something you and colleagues hold a view of, or have a position on. Something you know, believe, perceive, expect, prefer, propose, did, would do. To differ is to diverge on any of these. To disagree is to oppose another’s view or position concerning any of these.

Differences don’t necessarily become disagreements, and disagreements don’t necessarily become conflict. Colleagues can differ and disagree while continuing to collaborate. What distinguishes collaboration from conflict isn’t the difference or disagreement. It’s whether people work with their interdependence or contest it.

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