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If you’ve followed this column for any length of time, you’ll know I am an avid student of Stephen R. Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” My favorite habit is number six: “synergize, the habit of creative cooperation.”

During this time of disturbing political conflict, I am reflecting intently on this habit. Conflict often arises from a lack of willingness to value our differences of opinion. The “my way or the highway” mentality prevails, blocking all view of a future state where all can thrive. 

Conflict is a path of choice born out of win-lose thinking, more often than not leading to lose-lose outcomes. In an abundance mentality, win-win thinking carries the day. With an attitude of abundance and the willingness to respect our differences, Covey’s Path to Synergy™ is possible.

I am a huge proponent of productive conflict. I view it as a way to respectfully debate, learn from those who differ from us and value the unique perspective each of us brings to the table. When conflict is managed by fact and approached with noble intentions, willingness to value different thoughts and respect for people, a culture of trust is built and new, exciting ideas emerge.

Through this process, shared excitement and commitment to third alternatives results in an outcome much greater than the sum of its parts.