DRAGON's LEAP

​The fifth animal of the Chinese zodiac is the Dragon.  As well as fiery breath (at least in Western tradition), Dragons are known for their courage and willingness to take risks.
 
There is often a point in negotiations where a party needs to take a leap of faith. I don’t mean irresponsible risks, but for a party who has prepared their data, sought legal advice and reflected on their own contribution to the dispute, these are calculated risks. A party may need to have belief:

• that the other party also wants to end the conflict;
• that the other party will abide by the agreement; 
• that expressing vulnerability may lead to a better agreement;
• that they can represent themselves in mediation;
• that they have the ability to make decisions for themselves, and
• that the conflict can end.

 
It is not easy to believe in any of these aspects, and yet every mediation, I see parties being willing to take this risk.  Taking risks is not easy and yet in conflict parties often need to take this leap of faith in order to change the dynamics and reach resolution. 

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