Episode #234 Best Of: Find Common Ground

Six Problems

• We tend to move through our polarized world seeking out differences and division.
• The conflict in our country has found its way into our communities and even our homes.
• It is far easier to villainize than to empathize.
• No relationship can meaningfully progress without the ability to find common ground.
• The only growth that takes place in an echo chamber is in the magnitude of our anger.
• Our perspectives are not perfect, and we are guaranteed to be wrong about something.

Six Principles

• If we can identify differences with each person, then we can identify similarities as well.
• The world’s chaos is not our fault, but navigating it in a healthy way is our responsibility.
• There is always at least one area where our enemy is our ally.
• Sound bite and snippets rarely change our minds, but stories often changes our hearts.
• We can be honest about our reactions while remaining committed to moving forward.
• We have the power to choose whether we will disagree in love and dialogue in kindness.

Six Practices

• Consider the questions, “What is valuable? What is good? What is true?”
• When differences seem insurmountable, begin by identifying a single shared value.
• Prioritize being in relationship over being in the right.
• Familiarize yourself with the phrases “Tell me more” and “Help me understand.”
• Affirm when possible, believe the best, and choose to be curious rather than cemented.
• Take a step forward today to repair a relationship that has become strained or distant.