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At a recent project management training, a former CEO of our company was talking about conflict management, and he said "Always take the high road. It's less crowded up there."

I've been trying to keep that in mind whenever a conflict of any kind comes up. Doing it well usually leads to a beneficial outcome. It's easier to maintain a position of leverage and because saving face in the short term can be a big cumulative asset in future conflicts (rave). But stifling the urge to tell someone to [expletive] off is tough sometimes (rant).

take the high road then when you're up above the person you are in conflict with point it out that you took the high road thus you are better than them

I also like to maintain a little passive-aggressive action while on the high road. Probably means I'm flirting with a High Road DUI.

You have to be ahead of the curve. 10 years ago, taking the high road was ahead of the curve. Today, everyone is talking about taking the high road, so if you are just adapting this strategy you are late to the party. I'm back to taking guys knees out and it's working beautifully.

Jim, if you're ever in Minneapolis, I have a favor to ask.

Taking the low road is the new OBP.