Consensus
Or, if you want to take action (instead of talk action), get to the truth of the issues you face and move forward…
Consensus
Please don’t get me wrong, I am all for listening to different points of view, for seeking agreement and for open and authentic leadership – and none of those three has anything to do with Consensus.
Because it never, ever works.
How many people do you need in a room, to get a disagreement?
Yes, two (some psychologists say one – the first sign of madness is talking to yourself, the second sign is arguing with yourself and the final sign is losing the argument).
For now, let’s say two.
So, what chance do you as a leader or a team member have of getting absolute 100% agreement in your team, in a project or in a meeting?
None
So stop trying.
Instead, do the following:
• Agree that this team takes cabinet responsibility for all decisions that it takes – i.e. whatever your opinion, you support whatever decision is made.
• Give everyone a chance to have their say, and respect everyone’s point of view.
• Make a true decision (if you take a vote, anyone who has not contributed loses the right to vote).
And that is not consensus, that is openness, respect and commitment.
With my love and best wishes
David
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