But, it is more about the mindset. We can enter most situations with the mindset that we will achieve synergy. What becomes important is finding common ground, so people’s energy can go toward finding a solution to a problem….not to making sure they come out on top. It is a valuing of people and recognizing that everyone has something to offer, something that is to be of worth and needing to be considered. It is also about the mindset that “together, we achieve something greater than we would have if working alone”.
Inquiry and advocacy are the core to achieving synergy. Inquire about another person’s viewpoint. Value his/her input. It is crucial to know where another person is at, before trying to take them to where you want them to go. Think about a time you were talking with someone. Maybe you went round and round. Remember when you finally felt “heard”. You may have relaxed physically, loosening the jaw that had been tightened and the hands that had been clenched. Really hearing and acknowledging another person’s stance is a gift we give during conversation. It is our responsibility to do this, on order to move the problem-solving process forward.
Advocate for your own position. State your thoughts, don’t just sigh and give in. Think of a time you were talking with someone. Maybe you were just too tired to advocate for yourself. So, you acquiesced and gave in. How did you feel afterwards? Did you truly support the decision that had been made? It is our responsibility to do this, to advocate for ourselves. Sharing our ideas brings new possibilities to the problem-solving process.
The goal is to make decisions that are the best possible, to solve a problem in a way that can’t be compromised. This is only done by a meeting of the minds. When we hold the mindset that all people are valuable and that we need to consider all opinions, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. And, people have more fun doing this….because they believe their opinion was considered valuable, and that they made a contribution to the greater good.
To learn more about how to practice this understanding, contact Results Group, LLC at www.ResultsGroupLLC.com or 515-330-2866.
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