I am in the middle of a negotiation. I need another’s help to make something real. I know it. He does as well. We both bring things to the table that the other does not have. We have an interesting opportunity to find common ground and a proposal that everyone believes is mutually beneficial.
As I think about the strengths and capabilities that each brings, I am struck by the common ground that shapes the potential of what might follow. Individual contributions have part of the overall design. When one brings the multiple viewpoints and components that contribute to a detailed design, one has an amazing picture that is more than anyone anticipated! The early premise that had a chance of working now has a high probability of being realized! While there are areas that can be refined, the design has enough detail to give one confidence of what can follow.
As I think back on the different way things have come together in the past, I can see a repeating pattern. When I step beyond the limits of my imagination and give my heart and mine permission to accept the strength and vision others bring, inevitably something greater emerges. Looking back, the choice seems obvious. I know it was anything but. There were no guarantees that one would experience the impossible. The chaos at the beginning was replaced by actions then results; “Mountains pushed up, valleys spread out in the places you assigned them.” (Psalm 104.8)
Lessons I am holding close to my heart as I negotiate include the following.
As good as an architect as I might be, there are even greater architects. Embracing any and all opportunities to work with one who is great and greater is a good idea.
Just because I can see the edge of the possible, I should always remember that the real edge is likely to be way beyond what I imagine.
Collaboration is a door to a greater story. Great architects love sharing and inviting others in. Embracing opportunities and doing my part always leads to more.
