Work to Generate High-Value Compromises – “Win-Win” Situations

“Why should we be in such desperate haste to succeed and in such desperate enterprises? If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away.”  Henry David Thoreau

Being in a situation where people can’t – or don’t – want to find a middle ground or to at least agree to disagree without violence in word if not deed is always unpleasant and disturbing.  Wars have been fought over those disagreements and innocents have been slaughtered.

One of the greatest achievements of our founding fathers was their ability to compromise. Recently, we seem to have lost that ability in many areas of American life.  It’s time to recognize that we don’t REALLY live in an apocalyptic or dystopian world.

Not every single person is out to kill us or steal our goods or money. But the rhetoric being used about a multitude of issues is harsh and there seems to be little interest in working towards a negotiated outcome. It’s time for all of us to take a deep breath and work together to resolve our issues.

Changing the Rhetoric

If we’re tired of hateful or derogatory messages, we need to take the high road and communicate our belief that it’s acceptable to have a different viewpoint. We also need to communicate that what is NOT acceptable is the inability to compromise.  The “all or nothing” viewpoint needs to be changed.

How will we change it?

If you have a positive outlook and think that any difference of opinion can be mediated, that belief needs to be communicated. Instead of talking about defending or attacking rights, let’s take a page from our founding fathers and speak out about common sense – to get something we have to give something.

If you agree with the attitude that a “win-win” outcome is always possible through compromise, you not only have a right to express that belief, you have the opportunity of making it possible. Take advantage of making your message heard.

#BeBIGGER #WinWinSituations #Motivation #Leadership #iamjuliefriend