OGL 340 1

OGL 340 Reflection

Jamey A Taft

Arizona State University

OGL 340 2

OGL 340 Reflection

For the beginning of OGL 340 we were asked to watch Invictus, a clip from Gandhi and a
60-minute segment on mindfulness. I believe this module set a tone for the entire course that
helped it flow. I think considering the different ways a class could start, the execution was
terrific. Both Gandhi and Mandela had a huge impact on the world today. Both excellent leaders
who were full of ideas and visions for what they would like to see in the world. Both had very
separate approaches. I think the overall introduction was great. I am not going to lie, I am a busy
body and sitting through an entire movie is not an easy task. Nevertheless, it got done and I’m
glad I experienced it!

In module 2 we were shown Aikido. Aikido deals with physical conflict differently than
what is considered normal. Aikido is the blending of energies to ensure every party stays safe.
Aikido involves Center, Welcome, Blending, and leading. This applies to how leaders should
deal with conflict in the workplace. I saw a connection between the two. For a company to thrive,
we need leaders that can roll with the punches and also building connections despite conflict
being an everyday occurrence. I still think back to this module often and when I find myself in
the middle of conflict, I have started finding my center. I am very grateful for the hand on the
wall activity we did. It really put into perspective just how important
it is to be focused.

Spitting Out the Hook was the first conflict transformation skill we learned in this course.
I found this module to be helpful in a sense as it clarifies exactly what is going on. Conflict can
get messy but understanding the event, and a reaction makes all of the difference. The event is
what takes place, and the reaction is how we respond. The thing that really stood out and took me
awhile to realize is that other reactions are not our responsibility. That does not give us the
excuse to be hostile, but it does focus our energy on solving the issues. As far as dealing with
conflict, I do think it will help and I did learn this skill along with remaining centered. The
quizzes helped me pinpoint exactly what is crucial for the understanding of the modules. I think
they were a good in between.
OGL 340 3

H.E.A.R is an acronym for Hear, Explain, Ask and Respond. H.E.A.R was the second
conflict transformation skill we learned. I think this skill came more naturally to me than the
others because I found that I already do that in most conversations. That’s not to say it was the
easiest though because I still had to apply the Aikido methods and I am a bit reactive. Staying
open, calm and present is the biggest challenge for me yet however the lesson was not redundant.
No matter how old, or wise are we could all use a refresher from time to time. Also, the ted talk
was my favorite. Listening is our greatest tool!

Burn Clean is the third conflict transformation skill that we learned. I found it quite
different from the rest as its main focus is on meeting the needs of yours truly. It’s assertive, and
up until this point I can see how it’s magnitude has the ability to show the difference between a
leader and a follower. It’s the ability to use your voice to make movement with what is important
to you. As humans, we use so much of our time catering others with good reason, but being able
to voice what we need to help ourselves thrive is necessary in dealing with today’s
conflicts without throwing out reactive hooks.

Say Yes is the fourth conflict transformation skill we learned for this course. I think Say
Yes is the heaviest of the skills that we have learned but I also think it ties each skill together as
it introduces mediation. Mediation requires a leader who is willing to remain objective and
honest to both parties. While I don’t think that I mastered this skill, I will be practicing this skill
more often as I see its benefit. Say Yes is meant for everyone involved and employing tactics that
help others move forward. I enjoyed learning about mediation and what it takes to
come to an agreement.

I went into this class with the hopes of learning something completely new. I knew
nothing of the sorts about Aikido, honestly did not even know what it was but I am very happy I
have taken this course. I learned a lot about life, myself and how to handle situations without
flying off the handle figuratively speaking.