I love this desk doodad that I found in the gallery.
Two guys perched at opposite ends of a strewn out ladder, balancing precariously on top of a sphere (maybe the Earth).
Take a step forward or backwards and it can upset the balance of things and everyone falls down.
Don’t move–and you are in perpetual stasis–just balancing with the other guy so as not ruin the equilibrium of things, you’re stuck in limbo.
Maybe this is the definition of either doing nothing and going nowhere or creating a lose-lose situation, where you try to benefit yourself at the expense of others and down you both go.
What’s the only way out?
You both have to step forward and advance together–create a win-win–the balance and fairness is maintained and both move closer to each other and the center of things.
Climbing the ladder is really a balancing act with others you work with.
I tell people at work who get into it with each other, “listen, what’s more important winning the petty argument OR building the relationship with the other folks who presumably you’ll be working with for a long time to come?”
You may be able to talk or strong arm your way into getting what you want now, but do lasting damage to the relationship.
Unless, it’s a matter of right and wrong, make your best argument, but then be willing to compromise, especially if it means better teamwork and success in the longer scheme of things.
Being task/goal-oriented is great, but drop the ball on being people-oriented and it’s all be a big bust. 😉
(Source Photo: Andy Blumenthal)
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