URBAN VS RURAL - PART TWO
By: Melissa Barlock
Advantages of living in the rural countryside
Last time I discussed the advantages of living in a big city. This week we’ll see how the grass looks on the other side of the fence. In many respects, rural living on the countryside is the polar opposite to urban living in the big city; that is, the disadvantages of urban living are remedied by the advantages of rural living and vice versa.
Exposure to nature
What comes to mind when you think of the countryside? Perhaps you have visions of grassy plains, fields of flowers, lush valleys, tall trees, majestic mountains, babbling brooks, serene lakes, clear blue skies, and abundant wildlife. Oh, and remember stars? Maybe you hear birds and crickets chirping, bees buzzing, or calming quietness as you breathe in the crisp autumn air or bathe in the sunshine on a warm summer’s day. You feel relaxed, at peace, tranquil. Whatever your calling, most, if not all of us, are instinctively drawn to nature in some way. This makes sense when you consider that animals have been around for approximately 800 million years, our more direct ancestors for about 6 million years, and modern humans evolved about 200 thousand years ago. The industrial revolution, with which came urbanization, only started about just over 2 hundred years ago; it’s no wonder we yearn to return to our grass roots . Most people live in the city and make weekend escapes to nature. Dental professionals can work almost anywhere: why not live in nature and make weekend escapes to the city!?
Health and quality of life
Due to rapid urbanization, it should come as no surprise that a modern lifestyles brings with it a host of health ailments, with “cities becoming epicenters for chronic, non-communicable physical and mental health conditions” (1). Concurrently, there has been a growing interest in the scientific community on the relationship between exposure to natural environments and health and well-being. One such study by Keniger et al. (2) reviewed and compiled evidence from 57 relevant papers on the benefits of interacting with nature, taking a broadly qualitative approach. Though the exact mechanisms remain unclear, they uncovered an enormous range of potential benefits to health including physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and spiritual (2).
- Psychological well-being: benefits included increases in self-esteem, mood, psychological well-being, and behaviour, and reductions in anger/frustration, and anxiety.
- Cognitive: benefits included attentional restoration, reduced mental fatigue, improved academic performance, more education/learning opportunities, improved ability to perform tasks, improved cognitive function in children, and improved productivity.
- Physiological: benefits included stress reduction, reduced blood pressure, reduced cortisol levels, reduced headaches, reduced mortality rates from circulatory disease, faster healing, addiction recovery, perceived health/well-being, reduced cardiovascular and respiratory disease and long-term illness, and reduced occurrence of illness.
- Social: benefits included facilitated social interaction, social empowerment, reduced crime rates, reduced violence, enablement of interracial interaction, social cohesion, and social support.
- Spiritual: benefits included increased inspiration, and increased spiritual well-being.
Happier
Although health and well-being in particular are proxies for happiness, other studies looked at the relationship between nature and happiness as a construct specifically. For example, Capaldi, Dopko, and Zelenski (5) conducted a meta-analysis of the relationship between nature connectedness and happiness and found that “Those who are more connected to nature tended to experience more positive affect, vitality, and life satisfaction compared to those less connected to nature,” and concluded that “being connected to nature and feeling happy are, in fact, connected (5).”
Greater sense of community
Although there are many more people in the city, paradoxically many people feel disconnected and isolated from the larger community: you could go for years without ever getting to know your neighbour in the apartment next to you, for example. In rural areas, however, everyone seems to know everybody else, and there tends to be a greater feeling of belongingness and social support within the community. Your neighbours become your friends and your friends become your family.
Less Crime
Although not nonexistent, crime, and fear of crime, is less prevalent in rural areas. The main reason is due to a smaller population density; when population size is taken into account, rates may be similar or even higher in rural areas, though the types of crime may be less serious. Crime differs by location, so peruse statistics and other sources for more information.
Less pollution
Air, noise, litter, and light are just some of the forms of pollution (pollutants) that plague the city more so than the countryside. Air pollution is linked to a number of chronic respiratory (lung) and cardiac (heart) diseases. Water is more likely to be polluted in the city, but due to superior treatment facilities drinking water may actually be safer. Visual pollution in the city substituted with scenes of nature is likely one causal explanation for some of the aforementioned health benefits of exposure to nature.
Easy access to locally grown food
Living in the countryside you can grow your own crops, or head to a nearby farmer’s market to support the local community and acquire freshly grown produce. If you’re into organic fruits and vegetables they are also often easier, and cheaper, to find in rural areas.
Cost of living
Despite the many health benefits, let’s not overlook another main reason why people flee the city—it’s cheaper—sometimes much cheaper. In particular, mortgages, property taxes, and rent tend to be much cheaper in the countryside. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll enjoy a higher standard of living. Depending on your occupation, you may be able to earn much more in the city and overcompensate for the higher cost of living. You may work many more hours, too. On the other hand, you may be able to earn a comparable salary in a rural area while avoiding the additional living expenses. Some dental practice owners, for example, enjoy being the “town dentist” with virtually no competition and little overhead. In addition, they are usually appreciated and respected within the community, set their own hours, and have more disposable income and time to spend with family and friends. We also can’t ignore the other factors discussed in this, and the last, article.
Overall, the choice is yours, but keep in mind that standard of living (material well-being) and quality of life (health and happiness), though they may have some correlation, are in fact different measures and are often confused.
Can’t make up your mind? If you can’t seem to settle on the city or the country because they’re both so enticing, then living in the suburbs may be right for you—be within a drive’s distance of the city and enjoy some of the many advantages of rural living, including being closer to nature.
References
- Shanahan DF, Bush R, Gaston KJ, Lin BB, Dean J, Barber E, Fuller RA. Health benefits from nature experiences depend on dose. Scientific reports. 2016 Jun 23;6(1):1-0.
- Keniger LE, Gaston KJ, Irvine KN, Fuller RA. What are the benefits of interacting with nature?. International journal of environmental research and public health. 2013 Mar;10(3):913-35.
- White MP, Alcock I, Grellier J, Wheeler BW, Hartig T, Warber SL, Bone A, Depledge MH, Fleming LE. Spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing. Scientific reports. 2019 Jun 13;9(1):1-1.
- Chawla L. Benefits of nature contact for children. Journal of planning literature. 2015 Nov;30(4):433-52.
- Capaldi CA, Dopko RL, Zelenski JM. The relationship between nature connectedness and happiness: a meta-analysis. Frontiers in psychology. 2014 Sep 8;5:976.
Enspire Dental Opportunities is looking forward to working with you.
Finding the Right Fit: How Dentists Can Attract and Keep Great Team Members Running a dental practice isn’t just about providing exceptional patient care — it’s about building a team that works seamlessly together, supports your vision, and stays with you for the long term. In today’s market, dentists across Canada are feeling the squeeze when it comes to recruitment. Hygienists, assistants, receptionists, and associates are in demand, and finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. So, how do you stand out as an employer of choice and build a team that thrives? Here are a few strategies that can help. 1. Hire for Character, Train for Skill Clinical skills can be taught — but attitude, work ethic, and emotional intelligence are harder to instill. When reviewing candidates, focus on personality traits and values that align with your practice culture. A team member who brings positivity, flexibility, and a patient-first mindset is often worth far more in the long run than someone with years of technical experience but the wrong attitude. 2. Be Transparent in Job Ads Generic job ads don’t cut it anymore. Candidates want to know: What makes your office unique What their day-to-day role will look like What growth opportunities exist Highlight the aspects of your practice that matter most to today’s dental professionals — things like work-life balance, mentorship, CE support, or a friendly, team-oriented environment. 3. Understand What Today’s Candidates Value Compensation is important, but it’s not the only factor. Many dental professionals are looking for: Flexibility in scheduling A supportive team where they feel respected Opportunities for growth and learning A positive culture with strong communication If you can offer these — and communicate them clearly in your ads and interviews — you’ll attract candidates who care about more than just the paycheck. 4. Move Quickly — The Market is Competitive When a strong candidate applies, act fast. Waiting weeks to schedule interviews or make offers can result in losing them to another office. Having a streamlined recruitment process shows professionalism and keeps top candidates engaged. 5. Retain Through Engagement Recruiting is just the first step. Retention is where the real work begins. Keep your team engaged by: Offering regular check-ins and feedback Celebrating milestones and achievements Encouraging input and collaboration on office improvements Supporting ongoing education A team that feels valued and heard will stay longer, reducing turnover and saving you the stress of constant rehiring. Partnering for Success Finding the right people takes time and strategy — and that’s where a recruitment partner can help. At Enspire Dental Opportunities , we specialize in connecting dental practices with qualified candidates who are not only skilled but also aligned with your values and culture. But our support doesn’t stop once a candidate is hired. We also provide onboarding coaching and training to ensure your new team member integrates smoothly, builds confidence quickly, and contributes to a positive, productive environment. This combination of recruitment and post-hire support helps you reduce turnover, strengthen your team culture, and create lasting success. If you’re ready to build and retain a thriving dental team, let’s connect: www.enspireopportunities.com
The Cost of a Quick Hire When a team member leaves, the pressure to fill the role quickly can be intense. Patients are booked, schedules are tight, and the team is stretched thin. It’s tempting to hire the first qualified candidate who walks through the door, but rushing this step often comes with hidden costs. The Hidden Costs of Rushing a Hire Turnover: A poor fit usually means you’ll be back to recruiting again within months. Lost Productivity: Training someone who leaves soon after wastes valuable time and energy. Team Disruption: A mismatch can create friction, stress, and lowered morale for everyone. Patient Experience: Patients notice when the energy in the office isn’t cohesive. Why Fit Matters More Than Speed The best teams aren’t just skilled—they share values, communicate effectively, and trust one another. A thoughtful hiring process ensures that a new team member strengthens the culture you’ve worked hard to build. Taking the time to evaluate both competence and compatibility pays off in the long run. How to Avoid the “Quick Hire Trap” Clarify your values first. Know what qualities make someone successful in your office. Use structured interviews. Ask behaviour-based questions that reveal work style and problem-solving. Get team input. A candidate who connects well with your team is more likely to stay long term. Prioritize soft skills. Technical skills can be trained—character and communication are harder to teach. An empty chair may be stressful, but the wrong hire is even costlier. By slowing down and focusing on alignment, you’ll build a team that lasts—and one that patients love returning to. 👉 At Enspire Dental Opportunities, we specialize in helping offices hire smarter and support long-term success through coaching, team training, and DiSC assessments. If you’d like to strengthen your hiring process, let’s connect.
In the dental chair, trust isn’t just nice to have—it’s everything. A patient’s willingness to follow through with treatment, share concerns, or even show up consistently often hinges on their level of trust with the provider. While clinical skills are critical, what often makes or breaks the patient experience is how well we communicate and connect. That’s where DiSC comes in. What is DiSC? The DiSC model is a simple yet powerful tool that helps us understand behavior and communication styles. It breaks down into four primary types: D – Dominance : Direct, decisive, results-oriented i – Influence : Social, enthusiastic, people-oriented S – Steadiness : Calm, dependable, relationship-focused C – Conscientiousness : Analytical, precise, quality-driven By learning to spot these styles in our patients, we can adapt how we interact—making them feel more understood, respected, and at ease. Why DiSC Matters in Clinical Settings Your patients don’t just come in with dental needs—they come with personalities , fears , and communication preferences . When you recognize and respond to those behavioural cues, you create a foundation of trust. Here’s how it works in practice: 🟥 D-Style Patients: “Let’s get to the point.” These patients are driven, assertive, and want efficiency. What builds trust: Be direct and confident Stick to outcomes and benefits Offer options, but don’t overwhelm them with details Example: “Here’s the best treatment to get you back to 100% quickly. It’s the most efficient approach based on your case.” 🟨 i-Style Patients: “Make it friendly and upbeat.” i-types are social and people-oriented. They value connection and a positive vibe. What builds trust: Smile and use open body language Personalize the conversation (mention hobbies or last visit) Explain treatment in an enthusiastic, simplified way Example: “I’m excited about the progress we’re making! This next step will have you smiling even more.” 🟩 S-Style Patients: “Go slow and show you care.” S-styles are steady, loyal, and resistant to change. What builds trust: Use a calm, reassuring tone Take your time and explain changes clearly Emphasize stability, consistency, and long-term care Example: “I know change can feel a bit unsettling, but I’ll walk you through every step so you feel comfortable.” 🟦 C-Style Patients: “Give me the details.” These patients are logical, detail-focused, and cautious. What builds trust: Be prepared with data or visuals (like x-rays or diagrams) Answer questions with precision Avoid pushing decisions—give them time to think Example: “This chart shows why we recommend this approach. I’ll leave it with you to review, and we can revisit any questions you have.” The DiSC Advantage: Better Communication = Better Outcomes When patients feel heard and understood, they’re more likely to: Follow treatment recommendations Show up consistently Refer others Leave positive reviews DiSC doesn’t require you to be someone you’re not—it simply helps you adapt how you present information to match your patient’s comfort zone. Trust Is Built in the Small Moments Whether you’re a dentist, hygienist, assistant, or front desk team member, every interaction is a chance to build—or erode—trust. When you understand the DiSC styles, you gain a secret advantage: the ability to meet people where they are. Because in the end, it’s not just about teeth. It’s about people. And when people trust you, everything gets easier—for them and for you. Would you like to bring DiSC training to your practice? Let’s connect—I offer customized workshops for dental teams ready to elevate communication and patient care.
Is there someone in your circle who asks a lot of questions, needs all the facts, and holds themselves to high standards? That’s likely someone with a C (Conscientiousness) DiSC style. What is Everything DiSC? Everything DiSC is a personal development tool backed by decades of research. It provides individuals with a simple yet powerful framework to understand themselves and others better through four primary behavioral styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). By learning your DiSC style, you can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and enhance team performance. In the workplace, it helps create a more adaptive, respectful, and collaborative culture. Trusted by leading organizations. Major corporations like Google, Amazon, AT&T, American Express, and 3M use DiSC to build stronger teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and cultivate more positive organizational cultures. What is the C Style? C styles value accuracy, logic, and quality. They are analytical, private, and prefer to work independently. They communicate carefully, with a focus on precision and correctness. The C Style at Work In the workplace, C styles are your researchers, analysts, and quality controllers. They’re thorough, detail-oriented, and methodical. A C-style team member may double-check data, spot errors before anyone else, and prefer email over impromptu meetings. The C Style at Home At home, C styles are thoughtful, structured, and may prefer quiet over chaos. They may enjoy hobbies that involve systems or detailed tasks. A C-style partner might be the one organizing the finances or creating vacation spreadsheets. The C Style in Conflict In conflict, C styles can become overly critical or withdraw into analysis. They may avoid emotional expression and focus on logic. Helping C styles feel safe expressing emotion—and not just facts—is key to resolution. Do you recognize yourself or someone else in the C style? Join our Free DiSC Showcase Webinar on Wednesday, July 9th at 7:00 PM EST to explore the Everything DiSC on Catalyst experience and unlock insights into how you (and your team) operate best. 👉 Click here to register Thanks for reading our DiSC style series! Stay connected for more insights and tools to support your growth and communication.
Do you know someone who is steady, supportive, and always willing to lend a hand? You’re likely connected with someone who has the S (Steadiness) DiSC style. What is Everything DiSC? Everything DiSC is a personal development tool backed by decades of research. It provides individuals with a simple yet powerful framework to understand themselves and others better through four primary behavioral styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). By learning your DiSC style, you can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and enhance team performance. In the workplace, it helps create a more adaptive, respectful, and collaborative culture. Trusted by leading organizations. Major corporations like Google, Amazon, AT&T, American Express, and 3M use DiSC to build stronger teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and cultivate more positive organizational cultures. What is the S Style? S styles value stability, harmony, and cooperation. They are dependable, patient, and prefer a calm, consistent environment. They communicate with kindness, empathy, and a desire to keep things peaceful. The S Style at Work At work, S styles are the glue that holds teams together. They’re dependable, loyal, and excellent listeners. They may avoid conflict, but they’re trusted team players. An S-style project coordinator might ensure everyone has what they need and follow up without pressure. The S Style at Home At home, S styles are nurturing, thoughtful, and attentive. They create a warm and welcoming space for family and friends. They may put others’ needs before their own and find comfort in routines. An S-style family member might be the peacemaker in a household. The S Style in Conflict In conflict, S styles tend to withdraw or accommodate to avoid tension. They may not speak up even when something bothers them. Encouraging S styles to express themselves and assuring them that it’s safe to disagree is key to healthy relationships. Are you a calm stabilizer in your workplace or home? Discover your DiSC style and learn how to leverage your strengths. Join our Free DiSC Showcase Webinar on Wednesday, July 9th at 7:00 PM EST to explore Everything DiSC on Catalyst and your personal style. 👉 Click here to register Stay tuned for our next blog: Understanding the C Style.
Is there someone in your life who brings the energy to every room, thrives on connection, and always seems to have a story to share? That’s the signature of someone with the I (Influence) DiSC style. What is Everything DiSC? Everything DiSC is a personal development tool backed by decades of research. It provides individuals with a simple yet powerful framework to understand themselves and others better through four primary behavioral styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). By learning your DiSC style, you can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and enhance team performance. In the workplace, it helps create a more adaptive, respectful, and collaborative culture. Trusted by leading organizations. Major corporations like Google, Amazon, AT&T, American Express, and 3M use DiSC to build stronger teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and cultivate more positive organizational cultures. What is the I Style? I styles are enthusiastic, social, and people-oriented. They value relationships, collaboration, and recognition. They communicate in a warm, expressive, and sometimes spontaneous way. The I Style at Work At work, I styles are team builders and motivators. They bring energy to meetings, love brainstorming, and are excellent at rallying others behind a cause or idea. An I-style marketing coordinator, for instance, may thrive in client presentations and be the go-to for office celebrations. The I Style at Home At home, I styles are affectionate, playful, and fun-loving. They may struggle with routine but bring joy and spontaneity to family life. An I-style spouse or roommate might be the one organizing social events or encouraging last-minute road trips. The I Style in Conflict In conflict, I styles may avoid confrontation and prioritize harmony. They might minimize issues or shift the focus to avoid negativity. While this helps maintain peace, they may need to work on addressing issues directly and listening without deflection. Want to explore whether you’re an I style—or how to better connect with one? Don’t miss our Free DiSC Showcase Webinar on Wednesday, July 9th at 7:00 PM EST. Learn how Everything DiSC on Catalyst reveals your style and transforms team dynamics. Reserve your spot today! 👉 Click here to register Stay tuned for our next blog: Understanding the S Style.
Do you know someone who is bold, direct, and always chasing results? You might be working—or living—with someone who has a high D (Dominance) DiSC style. What is Everything DiSC? Everything DiSC is a personal development tool backed by decades of research. It provides individuals with a simple yet powerful framework to understand themselves and others better through four primary behavioural styles: Dominance (D), Influence (I), Steadiness (S), and Conscientiousness (C). By learning your DiSC style, you can improve communication, strengthen relationships, and enhance team performance. In the workplace, it helps create a more adaptive, respectful, and collaborative culture. Trusted by leading organizations. Major corporations like Google, Amazon, AT&T, American Express, and 3M use DiSC to build stronger teams, enhance leadership effectiveness, and cultivate more positive organizational cultures. What is the D Style? People with the D style are driven by results, challenge, and action. They prefer to move quickly, take control, and make decisions. Their communication tends to be brief, assertive, and to the point. The D Style at Work At work, D styles are natural leaders and decision-makers. They thrive in fast-paced environments and are motivated by achieving goals. They value efficiency and are often seen as competitive and determined. For example, a D-style team leader might set ambitious KPIs and push their team hard to meet them, expecting performance and direct communication in return. The D Style at Home At home, D styles can take charge of schedules, planning, and problem-solving. They may struggle with patience or overly emotional conversations but will step up when decisions need to be made. A D-style parent, for example, may be goal-oriented with their children, setting high expectations and encouraging independence. The D Style in Conflict In conflict, D styles are assertive and prefer to address issues head-on. They may come across as aggressive if they’re not careful, but their goal is to resolve the issue and move forward quickly. They may need to be reminded to slow down and listen to other perspectives. Curious if you—or someone you know—is a D style? Join our Free DiSC Showcase Webinar on Wednesday, July 9th at 7:00 PM EST to explore the Everything DiSC on Catalyst platform, discover your own DiSC style, and learn how DiSC can elevate communication and performance at work and at home. 👉 Click here to register Stay tuned for our next blog: Understanding the I Style.
In today’s fast-moving workplaces, even the most talented teams can struggle when it comes to feedback, conflict, motivation, and adapting to change. Good intentions alone aren’t enough—what teams need is a shared framework for understanding how people communicate, process challenges, and work together. That’s where Everything DiSC® Worksmart comes in. As a certified DiSC® authorized partner, we deliver live facilitated sessions (in person or virtual) designed to help your employees apply DiSC insights to real-world challenges—quickly and effectively. These practical, high-impact sessions combine powerful behavioral insights with targeted action planning to help teams break down communication barriers, improve collaboration, and drive performance. Let’s explore how Worksmart works, what’s inside, and why it’s the perfect fit for teams and managers at every stage. What is Worksmart? Everything DiSC® Worksmart combines DiSC insights with short-form facilitated training and action planning on the Catalyst™ platform. Each module focuses on a specific workplace challenge—and can typically be delivered in under one hour , making it ideal for busy professionals. These sessions don’t just scratch the surface—they activate meaningful learning, reflection, and concrete action plans that learners can immediately apply. How Does a Worksmart Session Flow? ✅ Introduction & Objectives Set the stage with the topic, learning goals, and a quick DiSC refresher. ✅ Discussion & Reflection Use questions and polls to tap into learners’ experiences and generate lively engagement. ✅ DiSC Insights Explore how each DiSC style approaches the topic, opening up fresh perspectives. ✅ Personalized Discovery Dive into each learner’s unique DiSC profile for tailored self-awareness. ✅ Action Planning Develop a concrete, personalized action plan for applying what’s learned to a specific team member or situation. ✅ Closing Reflection Wrap up by reinforcing key takeaways and helping participants commit to next steps. When is the Right Time to Use Worksmart? Worksmart modules can be used as: Targeted solutions for immediate needs (e.g., addressing feedback, managing conflict, or navigating change) Ongoing development for managers, leaders, or team members to strengthen collaboration Culture-building tools to boost engagement, productivity, and cohesion Support for new or seasoned managers to better understand their management style and its impact Available Worksmart Modules ✨ Giving Constructive Feedback — Help managers deliver motivating, actionable feedback tailored to individual styles. ✨ Managing Conflict — Teach managers to recognize and navigate their own and others’ conflict instincts. ✨ Empowering Your Team — Ensure team members feel confident and effective in leadership roles. ✨ Helping Your Team Navigate Change — Equip managers to guide their teams smoothly through change. ✨ Motivating Your Team — Discover what drives (and demotivates) people to foster a motivated, engaged environment. Why Choose a Certified DiSC® Authorized Partner? As a certified partner, we bring expert facilitation, tailored delivery, and deep knowledge of how to make DiSC insights come alive in your organization. Whether you’re developing your leadership bench, addressing team challenges, or boosting engagement and performance, we deliver live, interactive training customized to your needs. Ready to Elevate Your Team? Let’s connect! 👉 Book a Free Consultation 👉 Schedule Your Team’s Worksmart Session Today We can’t wait to help you unlock your team’s full potential!
Boot Collaboration & Hire Smarter
Whether I’m facilitating a corporate workshop or leading a training session for healthcare professionals, one thing remains constant: people want to feel understood, respected, and empowered at work. And yet, some of the greatest workplace challenges stem not from systems or processes, but from how we interact with one another. That’s why my most recent training sessions have focused on three powerful pillars of effective teams: Emotional Intelligence , Conflict Styles , and Communication . Emotional Intelligence: The Unsung Superpower In every session I lead, I emphasize that Emotional Intelligence (EQ) isn’t about being overly emotional — it’s about being self-aware , socially aware , and emotionally agile . EQ drives how we manage our own reactions, respond to others, and navigate workplace dynamics with empathy and effectiveness. We explore the 5 core components: Self-awareness Self-regulation Motivation Empathy Social skills These aren’t just buzzwords; they are measurable, trainable, and deeply impactful. When teams build their EQ, I’ve seen firsthand how productivity improves, trust deepens, and even difficult conversations become opportunities for growth. Conflict Styles: Understanding Before Reacting Let’s face it — conflict is inevitable. But how we handle it makes all the difference. Using the Thomas-Kilmann Conflict Model , I help teams identify their go-to conflict styles: Competing, Collaborating, Compromising, Avoiding, and Accommodating. Rather than labeling one as “right” and another as “wrong,” we dig into the situational value of each style. For instance: Competing is helpful when decisions must be made quickly. Collaborating is ideal for long-term solutions where relationships matter. Avoiding can be strategic when emotions are high or issues are minor. Understanding these styles allows teams to move from reaction to reflection — and that shift changes everything. Communication: The Glue That Holds Teams Together No training is complete without talking about communication — because it underpins both EQ and conflict resolution. But effective communication isn’t just about what we say — it’s about how , when , and why we say it. Some of the practical strategies we cover include: Active listening (listening to understand, not just to reply) The “FORM” method to build rapport (Family, Occupation, Recreation, Motivation) Giving and receiving feedback using non-defensive frameworks Reading and responding to non-verbal cues We also use DiSC assessments to help individuals understand their own behavioural styles and learn how to adapt their communication to connect more effectively with others. It’s incredible to watch how quickly team dynamics shift when people learn how to flex their communication style. These topics aren’t just “soft skills” — they’re the backbone of strong leadership and cohesive teams. As we move through another year of change, hybrid work, and growing complexity, organizations that prioritize emotional intelligence, conflict navigation, and effective communication will be the ones that thrive. If your team hasn’t revisited these foundational tools in a while, now’s the perfect time to start the conversation. At Enspire, we offer customized trainings for both large groups and smaller teams — available online or in person. Whether you're looking to improve communication, reduce friction, or build leadership capacity, we’re here to support your team’s growth.
