“Glass Slippers and Grit: Managing Conflict the Cinderella Way”

Staying on the theme over the last few articles.

Imagine this: You’re living under one roof with two people who undermine your every effort, a third who steals your credit, and a stepmother who practically specializes in passive-aggressive communication. No, this isn’t a corporate boardroom—this is Cinderella’s house.

Now, before you dismiss her as just a fairytale princess waiting on a magical rescue, let me ask you: What if Cinderella wasn’t weak, but wise? What if her story isn’t about slippers and sparkle—but about strategy and conflict management?

Let’s take a glass slipper stroll through her world and see what we can learn about managing conflict with grace, grit, and just a touch of fairy dust.

1. Recognize the Root, Not Just the Rumble

Cinderella didn’t lash out when her stepsisters mocked her. Why? Because she understood something crucial: conflict often masks deeper issues. Her stepsisters were insecure and craved approval. Her stepmother? She saw Cinderella as a threat to her control.

In our lives—be it at work, at home, or even in Toastmasters—we often focus on what someone said instead of why they said it. The next time someone pushes your buttons, pause and ask: What are they protecting? What are they afraid of losing?

Understanding the root calms the reaction.

2. Choose Response Over Reaction

Cinderella never reacted emotionally. She didn’t throw the broom or slam the pumpkin carriage door. Instead, she remained poised, even when denied a chance to go to the ball.

Why? Because she knew her response was her power.

In conflict, it’s tempting to match fire with fire. But fire only spreads. Response—calm, deliberate, confident—extinguishes chaos. It allows you to be heard and respected.

So when conflict strikes, don’t be the fire. Be the fireplace: contained, purposeful, and in control.

3. Leverage Allies, Not Armor

Let’s talk about the Fairy Godmother. No, she didn’t come to save Cinderella. She came to amplify the courage Cinderella already had. She gave her tools—transportation, transformation—but Cinderella still had to walk into the ball, speak up, and show up.

In your conflicts, who’s your fairy godmother? It could be a mentor, a coach, or even this club. Don’t armor up and isolate. Ask for perspective. Get tools. And then step into the ballroom—ready to own your part of the resolution.

Call to Action:

Fellow readers, we all have our “stepmother moments” and our “sister struggles.” Conflict is not a curse—it’s a call. A call to grow, to clarify, and to lead.

So, the next time you’re faced with tension, don’t wait for magic. Be like Cinderella:

• Understand the root, not just the reaction.

• Respond with grace, not ego.

• Lean on allies, not armor.

And remember—real conflict management isn’t about avoiding midnight. It’s about showing up before the clock strikes, speaking with clarity, and walking away—glass slippers on or for me typically Air Jordan’s, head held high.

Thank you.