“Sunday Negotiation Insight”
To control your state of mind when met with a problem is to control the problem. -Greg Williams, The Master Negotiator & Body Language Expert
“It’s Not That Bad”
When you’re beset with a problem, do you take notice of what becomes of the problem once it’s solved? Once it passes, upon reflection, it doesn’t appear to have been that challenging. The cliché that comes to mind is, ‘time heals all wounds.’ That’s true because the passing of time diminishes the thought of pain associated with any occurrence you experience.
Think about this, no matter how bad your situation may be, compared to what others are going through, you’re doing good. Personally speaking, I’ve never sought comfort in the misery of others, but we all compare ourselves to others, whether we admit it to ourselves or not. That being true, such comparisons about what others are experiencing can be a point of reference to call on when such is used to mentally benefit you.
When you’re in the midst of what appears to be total chaos, when the cloud of despair seems to be following you and only you alone, know no matter where you are emotionally, it’s not that bad. Change the way you perceive your circumstances and you’ll change the way it affects you. That slight mental alteration should alter your perspective for the better, knowing soon that things will get better … and everything will be right with the world.
What does this have to do with negotiations?
The mindset you possess in any situation will dictate how you engage in that situation. That’s especially true when negotiating. Thus, if you possess a more positive attitude during the negotiation, your mind will be free from stress. That will allow you to think clearer per the best negotiation strategies to use.
If you don’t think there’s value in maintaining the right mindset when negotiating, you’ll never be as good of a negotiator as you could be. Everything you do is based on your perception. Your perception originates in your mind. Control your mind and you control your perception.
Thinking clearer will allow you to see and embrace more opportunities. Being able to sense and address more opportunities will lead to greater negotiation outcomes. When you sense you’re engulfed by turmoil, think to yourself, it’s not that bad. In so doing, you’ll have greater control of your mind and the negotiation.
What are your takeaways? I’d really like to know. Reach me at Greg@TheMasterNegotiator.com
Remember, you’re always negotiating.