Never accept a win-lose end to a conversation.
You should always take a stand to get the outcome you need. It’s not OK for you to end up on the losing side.
At the same time, take a stand for the other person getting what they need. It’s equally not OK for them to be on the losing side.
So, next time you’re expecting a difficult conversation…
Start by declaring that you want a win-win outcome. Tell them what success looks like for you. Clarify what success looks like for them.
And then explain that you’ll take an equal stand for both of you winning.
You won’t accept not getting the outcome you want. And you’ll be equally unhappy if they don’t get the outcome they want.
