What if They Won’t Play

Just like in martial arts, there is a better way to approach disagreement than head on. You can redirect their push to your advantage.

They may criticize you, attack your ideas, or dig their feet in. Don’t get defensive or take an attack personally. Use their feedback to further the analysis of the problem. Don’t try to change their position. Ask questions about their position to help you come up with alternatives.

Instead of getting further apart on the solution, be understanding of their position. Make yourself their ally in solving the problem you face together.

Getting to Yes

Book: Getting to Yes