How to Defuse a Tense Work Situation

When things get heated, it’s easy to lose sight of what caused the conflict in the first place. If a discussion with a co-worker seems to be going in circles, try to pinpoint exactly what the issue is. Although you may feel like you’re channeling your therapist, repeating the problem aloud as you see it can help to resolve the issue: "So to clarify, you feel that I took too much credit for your idea. Am I understanding correctly?"