The surprising benefits of facing conflicts head-on 💪🏽 {The Virtual PM Newsletter}


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Hey Reader,

Conflict. Just reading the word might make you want to shut this email and move on—but hang in there.

For years, I thought avoiding conflict was the “professional” thing to do. I convinced myself that if I stayed quiet, everything would work itself out. Spoiler alert: It didn’t.

What I’ve learned through hard lessons (and more than a few bumps in the road) is that running from conflict doesn’t just hurt you—it hurts your team, too. It creates delays, erodes trust, and sends the unspoken message that open communication isn’t welcome.

But here’s the truth: conflict, when handled properly, can actually be a game-changer.

It can spark creativity, build trust, and lead to better decision-making.

In this LinkedIn article, I share:

  • The biggest costs of avoiding conflict (and how to spot them).
  • How leaning into tough conversations saved one of my projects.
  • Practical tips to address conflict without letting it derail your team.

If you’re tired of letting unresolved issues fester and ready to learn how to handle conflict like a true leader, this is for you.


I created this infographic below to help you deal with conflict as a leader...

What I'm Loving This Month

🎧 Tech: Listen, streaming without this Fire TV Stick 4K Max feels prehistoric. It’s fast, it’s powerful, and the 4K quality? Chef’s kiss. I use it to binge my favorite shows and dive into free live TV without skipping a beat. Pair it with some popcorn, and you’ll instantly win Christmas.

👕 Footwear: Yes, I wear Crocs—and I’m not even ashamed. These things are the definition of comfort, and anyone who says otherwise hasn’t lived. They’re my go-to for everything: errands, lounging, and even “fashionable” moments. Gift these with a few Jibbitz charms and watch them wonder why they didn’t hop on the Crocs train sooner.

📘 Book: Million Dollar Action by Rachel Rodgers is like having a personal mentor slap some sense into you and hand you the roadmap to wealth. If you’ve got someone in your life who’s serious about leveling up, this is the Christmas gift they didn’t know they needed.

Have You Discovered Your Leadership Style Yet?

The best leaders don’t leave their success to chance—they know exactly what makes them tick, how to connect with their teams, and how to dominate every interaction.

That’s where the DISC Assessment comes in, and as a certified John Maxwell DISC Consultant, I’m here to make sure you’re playing at the top of your game.

The DISC Assessment isn’t some fluffy personality quiz—it’s a deep dive into your unique leadership style, communication habits, and decision-making strengths.

DISC stands for Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness—four key personality traits that reveal how you communicate, make decisions, and lead.

Trust me, this is THE tool that separates good leaders from GREAT ones.

Why do you need it?

Because you’re not here to be average. Here’s what it’ll do for you:

  • Own the Room: Understand exactly how to communicate with your team, clients, and peers in a way that gets results and earns respect.
  • Make Smarter Moves: Stop second-guessing yourself. With a clear picture of your strengths and blind spots, you’ll make decisions with confidence and precision.
  • Build Unstoppable Connections: Learn how to adapt to different personalities, so you can influence, inspire, and lead like a pro.

If you're interested and you want to step into a whole new level of leadership, book a DISC assessment with me by clicking here.



Virtually Yours,

Donna Franklin West, MHA, PMP, CSM

CEO, The Virtual PM

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Newsletter / Article Reprint Permission:

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