I struggled with an issue this past year, and finally found some resolve with the following words, seek common ground. Always when a revelation that solves a problem finally arrives, that revelation is so simple, and the simple message of seek common ground is resonating with me right now.
As I struggled with a relationship dear to me, I was trying to find ways to make that relationship stronger and better. I didn't want to lose that person in my life, yet our interactions were strained at best. I tried many different avenues. I read many related articles, and then finally I realized that we were focusing on what separated us with regard to interests, philosophy, and choices rather than what brought us together. A focus on common ground has started a recovery to this relationship mess that occurred.
Similarly, in a recent conversation with a long lost friend, I realized that our parting was based on our differences. We have significant differences when it comes to politics, religion, and the choices we make. Yet, there is much that I value about this person who has a tremendous ability to reach personal goals and enjoy life's potential. I don't want to give up on this person altogether. So as I interacted with the conversation, I realized that I'll have to think more about what we have in common--our common ground.
With regard to work situations--I am thinking about some of my past roadblocks with colleagues who operated with different principles and vision than me. Often I wanted to sway people in my direction, but rather than starting with common ground, I often began with our differences. In hindsight, this was a poor decision. I would have been able to make much more and better change if I had started with common ground.
A friend of mine knowledgeable about history often recounts stories of Tip O'Neil and Ronald Regan's relationship. Despite their tremdous differences in political agenda and philosophy, they were able to work together and compromise around significant issues. This is an example of common ground.
Today, I believe that I'm not the only one who has forgotten about the great power of finding common ground, and I think that many of us need to revisit this concept and think about how it will lead us to greater potential and unity as a nation, in our communities, and with our relationships. I will think more on this in the days ahead and I welcome your insight.