When you can’t agree even with your best effort, having fallback criteria can break the agreement logjam and allow you get on with other things.
Good problem-solving process
The way we structure and orchestrate a problem-solving conversation influences not only how the conversation unfolds, but also the solutions that become visible and the quality of participation by all involved. The following articles offer insights and ideas about using good problem-solving process to formulate and lead conversations that enable great ideas and decisions to be illuminated.
Is the Einstellung effect interfering with your problem solving?
The Einstellung effect is a cognitive trap that prevents us from seeing better or simpler solutions to problems we’re trying to solve. Here’s how to recognize it and reduce its effect.
The type of problem that makes conflict resolution harder
Gravity problems make conflict resolution more difficult because they sidetrack us from actionable problems. Here’s how to recognize gravity problems when you see them, why they’re troublesome, and how to prevent them from hijacking resolution.
3 ways to turn adversaries into problem-solving partners
Most people don’t want to be wrangled into doing something you want but they don’t. Here are three ways to turn them into your problem-solving partners and dissolve resistance.
When it seems trivial, pay close attention
When you’re tempted to dismiss someone’s concerns as trivial, or roll your eyes at the things people find to fight over, it’s time to sit up straight and pay attention. Because you’re missing something…and it’s worth your while to figure out what.
Go back to the future to discover how your agreement could fail
When we’ve put in effort to solve a problem, we want our solution, decision, or agreement to have every chance at long-run success. Here’s a powerful way to improve our plan’s ability to stand the test of time: Go back to the future and test it with a premortem.
When the win-win solution is obscure
A win-win solution is optimal in so many negotiation and conflict situations at work and home. But what do you do if that win-win solution isn’t obvious?
Sweeping conflict under the rug
Sweeping important conflict under the rug doesn’t make it go away. We know this, even as we continue to do it. Hidden so we don’t have to look it in the eye, the conflict still draws our attention and increases our frustration.
