Q: When there is conflict, I stuff down my feelings and walk away. It’s not in my nature to fight back–I let things fester. Help.
A: Being self aware or emotionally intelligent is the key to appreciating and anticipating your response to conflict. Stuffing your feelings down is not a healthy or long-term strategy for success.
I wonder:
- What is your definition of a conflict? An argument? A disagreement? Loud talking? Or open hostility?
- Does it seem impossible to voice your opinion? To be heard? To get a word in?
- Are you viewed as the quiet one or the one that “goes along to get along” on the team?
- How much will you “take” before you finally speak up?
Note: I discovered that I have a narrow definition of conflict: loud banter–and my 
response is annoyance, not anger. Suspend your assessment and pay attention to the cues. With the “right” definition of conflict you will have more freedom to be you.