It All Comes Down To Values

These days I find I can boil any conflict, any difference of opinion, down to a set of differing values.

What do you value? Versus: What are the things that you're content to leave on the table?

The great thing about this question is that it's not only a yes or no question. There's always a degree of flexibility, something to juxtapose against. And when comparing two people's opinions, these comparisons often provide important insights.

Anytime communication breaks down, step back and look for the differences in values.


By framing our values, making them clear, we provide insight into our reasoning. It makes our strategy a little more obvious, which in turn helps our colleagues to play along.

But even when not aligned, there's still value in identifying what's important. It makes it easier to find the common ground where it exists. And if it doesn't, it ensures folks engaged at least have the opportunity to show up prepared.