How to Come to A Win-Win Solution Seamlessly
After years of working with families, I've found that there are six basic steps that help clarify the process of coming to a win-win solution. Try and keep these pointers in the back of your mind the next time you and your child are butting heads over issues:
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Step 1: Define the problem – what is contributing the conflict?
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Step 2: Generate possible solutions – what are some feasible options to alleviate this problem?
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Step 3: Evaluate the solutions – not every option will be worth considering.
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Step 4: Decide which solution is best – which option results in a pleasing outcome for all of the parties involved?
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Step 5: Determine how to implement the decision – is the best option a feasible solution?
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Step 6: Assess how well the solution solved the problem – was it really a win-win solution?
Difficulties Associated with Win-Win Negotiations
Negotiating a win-win solution seems pretty simple in theory; however, there are two inherent difficulties associated with this type of communication technique. First, this type of negotiating can be very time consuming. Second, an agreeable solution may not be found even after much time and energy has been invested.
If you've failed to find a suitable solution using this method, not all is lost. There are always other options worth investigating. What's more, the process of negotiating with your child is a great lesson in itself. This method leaves your child with a clear message that a sincere attempt was made to include him or her in the decision process – even if the end solution had to eventually be imposed by the parent. The effort required to find a win-win solution makes the child feel respected and appreciated. This helps to nourish a positive and healthy relationship between parent and child, and provides the child with a positive self-image.
Improve your relationship with your child through smart negotiations instead of irrational arguments. For more help improving your communication skills give me a call. I would be happy to help.