Collaborative Relationships: Think Win-Win for Long-Term Success

“In the long run, if it isn’t a win for both of us, we both lose. That’s why win-win is the only real alternative in interdependent realities.” — Dr. Stephen R. Covey

Being successful takes more than just individual effort. It requires strong relationships with others.

To be more effective at work and in life, try thinking win-win. This is the fourth habit listed in Dr. Stephen R. Covey’s book, “7 Habits of Highly Effective People,” and it can have a big impact on your relationships, productivity, and time management.

In this article, we break down what it means to think win-win, why it’s beneficial, and how you can implement this concept in your own life.

What Does It Mean to Think Win-Win?

Many of us go into human interactions seeking a win-lose situation. We think life is a zero-sum game and assume that, if we don’t get our way, we’ve lost and the other person has won.

This isn’t very productive.

Covey defines thinking win-win as a “character-based code for human interaction and collaboration.” When you think win-win, you approach life and human interactions with a collaborative mindset. On the other hand, win-lose is a competitive mindset and leads to conflict in interpersonal relationships.

A win-win attitude constantly seeks mutual benefit.

Why Should You Think Win-Win?

When you think win-win, you become a more pleasant and enjoyable person to work with.

You enjoy better interactions with your colleagues and team members. As a result, you’ll have an easier time building stronger, more trustworthy relationships.

This has multiple benefits in your work and life.

Benefit #1: Spend Less Time Arguing

If you’re in the habit of arguing to get your way, it may be time to rethink your approach.

Arguing wastes valuable time that could be spent more productively. Instead of focusing on being right, try thinking win-win and looking for better alternatives.

You’ll be surprised by how effective and efficient your collaborations can be.

Benefit #2: Focus on What Matters Most

A win-lose situation requires you to focus on winning at the expense of everything else.

This is a waste of time and energy. You become so focused on winning that you forget about other important things. Thinking win-win helps to refocus your energy on being more productive — progressing on projects, solving problems, and innovating.

By learning to think win-win, you save time and energy for the things that truly matter.

Benefit #3: Build Better Relationships

Thinking win-win builds healthier relationships.

Collaboration is more effective when you have stronger relationships. Creative solutions emerge, and you’ll come to conclusions faster.

Healthier, stronger relationships make it easier to achieve your goals since others will be willing to support you.

How to Think Win-Win

Many of us operate with a win-lose mindset.

But with practice and commitment, we can replace ruthless competition with a collaborative mindset.

To develop a habit of thinking win-win, try these tips:

1. Strike a Balance

Does thinking win-win require you to be a pushover?

In reality, it’s all about striking a balance. Those who think win-win know how to balance courage with consideration. They know when to be courageous and stick to their guns, and they know when to consider another’s perspective.

According to Covey, there are three vital character traits you need to achieve this balance and think win-win:

• Integrity: Sticking to your true feelings, upholding your values, and keeping your commitments.
• Maturity: Expressing your ideas and feelings openly, while also considering others’ ideas and feelings.
• Abundance Mentality: Believing there is plenty for everyone.

The more you work on these traits, the easier it’ll be to start thinking win-win and seeing improvements in your work relationships, productivity, and performance.

2. Practice Pausing

If you’re always the first to speak, this tip is especially important.

Try pausing before you give your opinion in meetings and other collaborations. And when others are speaking, actively listen to what they have to say.

You may discover others have great ideas you hadn’t considered before.

3. Seek Feedback

Thinking win-win requires that you understand others’ perspectives.

This is why seeking feedback is helpful. Invite others to share their opinions and insights — whether it’s team members, employees, or leadership. This gives you more opportunities to think win-win and consider others’ viewpoints.

It also helps team members gain more confidence in speaking up.

Next Steps: Start Thinking Win-Win Today

Seeking mutual benefit in all interactions will build stronger relationships. Start thinking win-win — it’s worth the effort.

If you want to think win-win more often, schedule regular meetings through Undock. This will give you more opportunities to practice these skills and connect with others. Try for free!

And if you want to improve your collaboration skills, check out our article: Delivering Feedback with the Positivity Sandwich: The Pros and Cons.

Originally published at https://phase.undock.com.