Avoid Popping Under Pressure

Pressure management is the key to effective leadership, conflict resolution, and staying composed when life feels like it’s stretching you to the limit. In How to Untie a Balloon, former hostage negotiator and founder of Conflictish® Ryan Dunlap provides practical strategies for managing stress, mastering conflict management, and building emotional resilience.

#1 New Release in Conflict Management, in Human Resources & Personnel Management, and in Family Conflict Resolution

Dunlap reveals the hidden impact of pressure on our thoughts, decisions, and actions. Using the analogy of a balloon, he demonstrates how unchecked stress, unresolved tension, and mismanaged conflict can lead us to self-destructive behaviors—making us dangerous to ourselves and those around us.

This book offers a practical roadmap to mastering conflict resolution for adults and implementing effective conflict reduction strategies. Through real-world narratives and the F.I.R.S.T. Steps framework, Dunlap simplifies complex conflicts into manageable components: Feelings, Interests, Relationships, Situation, and Toll. These strategies for resolving conflict enhance your self-awareness and empower you with the conflict management techniques needed to lead effectively in high-pressure environments.

Through each step of the F.I.R.S.T. Steps framework, you’ll learn how to:

Regain control over your emotions—so you don’t react in ways that cost you respect and influence.
Pinpoint what really matters—separating surface frustrations from deeper issues driving your stress.
Strengthen your relationships—so conflict doesn’t leave you bitter, burned out, or alone.
Navigate high-stakes situations with confidence—no more second-guessing or spiraling under pressure.
Recognize and release built-up tension—effectively managing stress through practical conflict management techniques.

How to Untie a Balloon delivers proven methods for conflict resolution, negotiation, and personal development. Master strategies for managing workplace conflict, maintaining emotional control, and enhancing your ability to resolve conflicts effectively in both personal and professional settings.

If you liked The Anatomy of Peace, Conflict Resolution Playbook, or Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict, then you’ll love How to Untie a Balloon.

How to Untie a Balloon

A Negotiator's Guide to Avoid Popping Under Pressure (Conflict Resolution Strategies, Difficult Conversations)