Disagreement can be the hallmark of a strong relationship.  Respectful interactions with others from deep friendships to casual acquaintances do not require agreement to be successful.

In fact, just the opposite.  The ability to use disagreement to reach stronger and higher quality conclusions can be  misunderstood.  Due to the negative emotions often associated with disagreement we do not always see the potential value.

The Power of Diversity

Differences can have a very powerful impact on results.  Adversity is a challenge (for sure) but overcoming it can lead to great rewards.  Both from the satisfaction of resolving conflict and because the result is most likely improved by multi-participation.

A key part of successful collaboration is harnessing the differences to create a unified approach that encompasses the best everyone has to contribute.

Leverage to Agreement

Disagreement only builds a relationship and leads to better results when it is used to develop consensus.  Success does not require all to agree but it does require acceptance and buy-in.

In the best cases, disagreements morph from separate positions to a unique but ultimately better-unified position.  This modifying of perspectives is not only a cornerstone of innovation but also a powerful way towards improvement.

A combination of everyone’s ideas, perspectives, experience, and background will typically lead to a stronger chance of attaining the desired goal.

Embrace Disagreement

In essence, disagreement is not something to be discouraged or treated with dislike.  Rather use the differences as a springboard to results.

Put aside the adversarial aspects of disagreement and leverage the opportunities they can provide.