When I was growing up, this time of year was very special to me. It was about the anticipation of the Persian New Year, which is celebrated at the moment of the Equinox. This is the time for renewal, getting rid of the old and embracing the new, aligned with our growth and path of evolution. Leading up to this date there were many rituals, including the Spring cleaning. It was way more involved physically and symbolically than what we know in the West. Even though it sounds like a huge chore, because of its symbolism, it became very special and memorable.
Housecleaning is exactly what we need when it comes to growing and strengthening our negotiation skills. Here are three significant points of this ritual that are also applicable to your negotiation skills:
- Getting rid of the clutter. Clutter is the stuff that has come into our life at some point and perhaps served some purpose. However, as we change and grow, these things are no longer serving us. Look at each item or behavior (in your negotiation) from these four angles: truth, service, purpose, and love. By looking at each item this way, you can decide whether it is helpful or a hinderance.
- Taking an inventory of what you have. After you get rid of the clutter or unwanted behaviors, take an inventory of your assets or positive attributes with the attitude of gratitude.
- Creating space for something new to come. Symbolically, when we clear a space we are creating a space for something to come. Changing habits are hard if we simply want to eliminate them. They are much easier if we replace them with something new.
Want more tips on how to become a better negotiator who takes all parties to a new level in a way that is beneficial to all? Visit my website at EnlightenedNegotiation.com to find out more about how you can shift your negotiation perspective by taking my workshop on Enlightened Negotiation®.