Conflicts are the state of being given a choice, or the need to make a decision regarding an issue which causes a person to be in a dilemma. This led to a state of confusion, preventing one from getting what he/she wants.
Authors can create conflict by putting obstacles for their characters which will prevent them from attaining what they want. This problem, obstacle or hindrance will create a conflict of interest in the character, making him to be in a dilemma and having to make a choice. And with the presence of conflicts in stories, it is always an interesting thing to see the characters 'forced' to make a decision. if stories are too free flowing and easy going, then there is no real interest to get to know the whole story.