In science fiction, we’re often presented with plots about travelling to the past, and the protagonist’s worry about affecting the present by some small unintended action or change. While we don’t recommend hopping in a time machine to fix the conflicts you may be experiencing, what’s stopping you from making those small changes in the present?

Most of us rarely consider the radical changes to our future that can come from something small in the present. Hindsight is 20/20 after all, but why wait to make the adjustments until it’s too late?

In family conflict specifically, it’s often these small adjustments and decisions which prove to be detrimental in helping the family navigate these conflicts. Talking things through more, a nice gesture, and even starting family mediation are great ways to get the ball rolling.

Growth is painful. Change is painful. But nothing is as painful as staying stuck somewhere you don’t belong.

N. R. Narayana Murthy

As with most issues we face, these conflicts can easily become blown out of proportion due to the complexity of the problem and our emotional ties to the situation. It may not always be comfortable, but being vulnerable today can make a huge impact on how the future unfolds and help to get us “unstuck”.

In the safety of a mediation space with a skilled independent and impartial mediator, those experiencing family conflict can build the confidence they need to make small changes today, instead of dreaming of time machines and “what ifs” in the future. You don’t have to change your life in a day, but if you work at it little by little, the change you’re looking for will come.

Every situation is different. This blog post is not intended to provide legal advice. Contact us for further help on your unique parental dispute.

Artwork by Megan Hewson. View her work at https://www.instagram.com/megheworiginals/