Are you a fan of the Jurassic Park Movies? Jurassic Park sequels are more than just a good time, aren’t they? But did you know that along with the amazing beasts and scary chases you could actually pick up valuable lessons on conflict resolution from the Jurassic Park Movies? After all, some negotiating principles are the same whether you are trying to agree on how to outrun a pack of raptors or leading an organization to greater heights. Try these tips that have been helping to settle differences since the last ice age.
Gain Trust
When will InGen learn? They keep bringing in meaner mercenaries and bigger weapons when the dinosaurs rebel against being pushed around. Treating others with respect helps to prevent conflicts. “Raise your thoughts, not your fists.” – Matshona Dhliwayo
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Find Common Ground. Start by paying attention to what others have to say. Trying to understand their position will help you find common ground. Ask relevant questions and restate what others say to ensure you are on the same page.
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Be Transparent. Show others that you are willing to trust them by being transparent. Disclose as much as you can about pertinent facts and your own motivation.
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Create Win-Win Situations. You will enjoy deeper satisfaction and create more stability if you search for solutions that each party can feel good about.
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Stay calm. Anger and blame interfere with progress. Take a break if you need to cool off. You can assert your needs while being civil and tactful.
Reach Out for Help
When you are having a friendly argument with an Indominus Rex, you might need to call in someone with more teeth. With a little luck, you will be able to find team members who are less unruly than a T-Rex.
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Collaborate for the highest good. Cooperating is more productive than choosing sides. Think about the good qualities of others even when you disagree with them.
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Take a third-party view. Impartial observers and skilled negotiators may help you uncover new options if you are at a deadlock. Consulting an expert can remind you that there are usually many solutions to a challenge if you are flexible and creative.
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Express gratitude. Think of conflicts as opportunities to grow instead of feeling threatened. Thank the other participants for their efforts to help move things forward.
Accept Reality
Conflicts often start when we care more about getting what we want instead of facing the truth or considering the welfare of others. If you can’t control ordinary dinosaurs, you are probably going to run into trouble if you genetically modify them to become bigger and scarier.
- Trust the process. Stay focused on the future vision. Shrug off temporary disappointments and setbacks. Just stay true to your major goals and objectives.
- Set realistic goals. Ambitious targets can be inspiring as long as they are still within reach. Make the most of your resources by sticking to projects that allow you to deliver results. Others will be more likely to support you if they see that you have an impressive track record.
- Know your priorities. You need to choose your battles. Keep your eye on the big picture. Ask yourself if you’d rather prove you are right or hold onto an important relationship.
Dinosaurs ruled the earth for a lot longer than humans have been around, so it makes sense that they might know something about how to live peacefully with each other. Face conflicts head on, and work together to develop agreements that stand up to the test of time. “Sometimes, God doesn’t send you into a battle to win it; he sends you to end it!” – Shannon L. Alder
