Are you ready to transform your marriage and create a life worth having? My latest YouTube episode is a must-watch if you find yourself entangled in conflicts with your spouse or struggling to have open conversations about important matters. Join me as I delve into the profound concept of negotiation and learn how it can revolutionize your relationship. I’ll show you how you can shift your relationship by unlocking the key to a life-giving marriage through the art of negotiation.

Understanding What Negotiation Is NOT

Before I dive into the art of negotiation, let’s clarify what it isn’t. It’s not about compromising your values or simply going along with your partner’s wishes. It’s not about agreeing to disagree or finding a middle ground. 

Genuine negotiation involves something far more powerful – it is crafting a new solution that’s better than either party’s initial perspective.

The 5 Steps to Effective Negotiation

Now that we understand the essence of negotiation, let’s break it down into actionable steps:

1. Get Neutral: Begin by setting aside judgment. 

This is the foundation of productive negotiation. Detach yourself from preconceived notions and biases.

2. Present the Problem without it being a Problem: 

Approach the issue without framing it as a problem. Instead, express it as a situation that needs addressing. This opens the door to constructive dialogue.

3. Lay Out Possible Solutions: 

Offer multiple solutions to the situation. This allows both you and your partner to explore different avenues and find common ground.

4. Brainstorm possibilities: 

Work together to choose a solution that you both agree with. It’s essential that both parties feel comfortable and invested in the chosen path.

5. Implement and Walk the Path: 

Once you’ve decided on a possible solution, put it into action. Commit to walking out this solution together.

The Wisdom of Jordan Peterson

Renowned psychologist Jordan Peterson encourages couples to apply negotiation to every aspect of their lives, even down to something as seemingly trivial as where to store the scissors. Peterson believes that the quality of life isn’t just determined by significant events but by the daily routines and choices that fill our lives.

What Are You and Your Spouse Fighting About?

Take a moment to reflect on the issues that frequently spark conflicts between you and your spouse. Is it managing household responsibilities, raising responsible children, resolving conflicts, or maintaining the spark in your relationship? Whatever it is, it matters. If you’re fighting about it, it’s a sign that there’s room for negotiation and improvement.

A Call to Action

Are you and your spouse ready to take your relationship to the next level by embracing the art of negotiation? Challenge yourselves to create innovative solutions that enhance your life together. 

If you want to hear me talk about this more and how Jeff and I used the fine art of negotiation to find the next place we chose to live, I  invite you to join me today on my latest YouTube episode.

In the end, the key to a life-giving marriage is the willingness to communicate, negotiate, and partner together. The power of negotiation is your gateway to unlocking the life you’ve always longed for, hand in hand with your beloved partner. Don’t miss this episode—it’s your first step towards a brighter and more fulfilling future together.

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts, experiences, and which of the five negotiation steps you believe you most need to grow in. Leave a comment below, and let’s embark on this transformation journey together.

—–

I have a FREE gift  🎁 for you! 

Get my 100 Deeper Connection Prompts & Ideas to help you grow in closeness with your spouse!

—–

Where to Find Me

INSTAGRAM: Follow & connect with me at @HeyJuliaWoods

YOUTUBE: Subscribe to @HeyJuliaWoods

PODCAST: Listen at Hey Julia Woods

SHOP: Marriage Resources

WEBSITE: Find more resources (couple’s coaching & retreats) at BeautifulOutcome.com

FACEBOOK: Like me at /HeyJuliaWoods