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URochester Medicine / Employee Assistance Program / News & Events / UR Medicine EAP Blog / June 2026 / Better Relationships at Work: Seek Connection, Not Contention

Better Relationships at Work: Seek Connection, Not Contention

Do you experience “oneness” with coworkers: the genuine sense of shared purpose, closeness, and understanding that can make productivity soar? Many workplaces drift into debate, control, and defensiveness, where spotting what’s wrong, proving a point, or avoiding responsibility dominate daily interactions. This environment stifles performance, but you can shift it quickly by seeking connection in every interaction. Seeking connection means practicing empathy, showing curiosity, and understanding before responding. Keep this goal in mind by choosing patience over impulsive reactions. Be your coworkers’ biggest fan when they share wins, ideas, and good news. Connection-driven communication supports psychological safety, making it easier to exchange ideas, solve problems, and stay engaged. Connection does not eliminate disagreement; it improves how it’s handled. With less defensiveness, your ability to influence others increases. These rules work anywhere people matter, and the payoffs can include both that sense of oneness and a healthier workplace.

Global Administrator | 6/5/2026

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