WHY CONSENSUS WORKS WONDERS

Genuine consensus is our best way of forming win-win decisions. Compared with groupthink (over-conformity), gridlock (futile debate), or compromise (settling for sub-optimum outcomes), consensus involves more creativity.

HOW IT GROWS

Ways of forming authentic consensus can flex to fit situational needs. Dr. Covey's "Seven Habits" are a good guide for groups to use in co-generating win-win outcomes. The key is active listening. Empathy empowers unity. This helps us envision inspiring ideas and find emerging opportunities. To confirm concepts, teams gather facts to support shared purposes. Linking good facts with uplifting ideas guided by mutual purposes, are three key elements in forming consensus to produce great results and lasting relationships.