Leadership Series – Creating Win-For-All Solutions

In the often cut throat world of business, it’s unfortunate that the focus tends to be on “what’s in it for me” and that an emphasis is put on “winning at all costs”. Sadly, this attitude of “me versus you”, or “us versus them”, has become incredibly common among all levels of leadership.

In some negotiations and business relationships, where one party may win ground while the other party or parties lose ground, this win-lose relationship is often referred to as a zero-sum game. Whatever one person wins, the other person loses, making the net gain a zero.

While that can be fine when it comes to playing board games or video games, it’s not in your best interest as a leader to adopt this zero-sum game attitude. In fact, it might be hurting you and those you lead, more than you may realize.

Learning how to come up with ideas and creative solutions that serve all, is an important skill to develop as a leader. Even though it’s typically much easier to attack a problem from a win at all costs perspective, coming up with a win-for-all solution takes a higher intelligence and a much more collaborative process.

In essence, win-for-all solutions require the building blocks of the other leadership series highlights previously shared:

When it comes to solving problems, it’s understandable that not all issues are negotiable, however, many can actually be solved with a win-for-all solution, at least in a small way. Although it might take some extra effort and require more outside-of-the-box thinking, the benefits can greatly outweigh any costs.

Win-for-all collaborations allow solutions to be implemented quickly, saving time and money in the end. It also creates a more cohesive, supportive environment for leaders and those they lead.

Great leaders create win-for-all solutions – is that what you try to do whenever possible?

Let’s be honest – the world needs better leaders at work and at home. Are you ready to become a better leader?

Source – “The 15 Commitments Of Conscious Leadership”