How Do You Cope With Bad Group Dynamics While Traveling?
Whether you’re traveling with family, friends or a professional tour group, the stress of travel will inevitably lead to occasional conflict. The key to keeping a group vibe positive is to establish good communication patterns, catch conflicts early and find creative compromises. Discuss at the outset what each group member thinks makes for a bad group travel experience, and ways of preventing problems from arising. Consider creating guidelines based on the concerns people raise, such as “avoid cliques” or “avoid gossip.” Discuss various strategies for keeping communication channels open before conflicts or resentments arise. Each group member should feel that there is a repertoire of tools for communication available that will work for them. Seek compromise or middle ground with others when conflicts arise. Perhaps each group member could articulate what he ideally wants, what he’ll settle for, and what he’s unwilling to sacrifice – work out a compromise from there. Schedule regular t
