Synergy is when the whole of the parts is bigger and better than the one alone (1+1=3)
Why do Geese fly in a V formation?
- The whole flock can fly 71% further than if each bird flew alone
- When a goose flaps it’s wings, it creates a updraft for the goose that follows
Compromise is 1+1= 1.5
- We live in a culture where the paradigm is compromise. This is how we grow up especially with siblings.
- We learn and practice this because there is no trust.
- We think this is the best way out.
- This is not synergy which can be created if we decide to work together
- The way to work together is to have a common goal
Negative synergy 1+1= 0.5
- This is because so much of the energy is going the wrong way.
- Counter productive
The key to Synergy is to always value differences
- Differences aren’t something you tolerate but something that you should celebrate
- It is not something that you accept
- Strength lies in differences, not in similarities
- However, you still need that common set of purpose/principles
- Differences are an advantage, not a disadvantage; so run with it
Prejudice is a protection against being vulnerable
- We get our security from our ability to manipulate people as things
- In order to classify them
- Therefore we don’t have to deal with people but instead with categories
- We have them labeled
- Then we get into the self-fulfilling prophesy
- This all leads to more problems
Resource: Refresh
3 steps to getting to Synergy
- Check willingness
- Are both parties willing to search for a solution that is better than what either of you has in mind?
- Reflect viewpoints
- Always restate the other’s viewpoint to his or her satisfaction
- Create new ideas
- Propose and refine new ideas
- Go back for further understanding until you arrive to a third alternative
When have you reached a third alternative?
- When you both have a change of heart
- Both sides feel new energy and excitement
- Both sides see things a new way
- Both sides feel the relationship has transformed
- When we end up with an idea that is better than what either of you have started with.
Synergizing is a creative process that explores new possibilities to benefit all parties involved
- It may take several times to reach the third alternative
craving and resource from “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by: Stephen Convey
