In a world where there is a lot of division and, well, arguing, finding common ground has become more important than ever before.
Common ground is about looking for shared values, beliefs, or interests that can bridge differences and create a better understanding between individuals, groups, or nations. Instead of “I’m right, you’re wrong,” try to find points we have in common.
I believe that MOST people do share some common goals. Working toward finding these goals will help us all get along better, or at least understand each other a bit more.
Here are a few reasons why finding common ground is almost always more productive:
Build bridges to understanding each other.
Common ground serves as a bridge that connects people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. By finding shared values and interests, people can transcend their differences and establish a foundation for mutual respect and cooperation or at the very least less mistrust of each other.
Resolving conflicts peacefully.
In conflict situations, finding common ground can be instrumental in de-escalating tensions and paving the way for peaceful resolution. When parties identify shared interests or goals, they are more likely to engage in constructive dialogue and seek mutually beneficial solutions.
Promoting social cohesion.
Common ground is the glue that holds societies together. When members of a community share common values and beliefs, they develop a sense of belonging and collective identity. This shared identity fosters social cohesion, cooperation, and a sense of shared purpose. In other words, it makes us feel better about each other. And really, isn’t that better than arguing with each other?
Enhanced communication and collaboration.
Finding common ground improves communication and collaboration among individuals and groups. When people realize that they share similar goals or concerns (which most people do), they are more likely to engage in open and productive communication. This can lead to better decision-making, problem-solving, and innovation. All of these are good things.
Reducing stereotypes and prejudice.
Common ground challenges stereotypes and prejudices by revealing the human connections that can help overcome superficial differences such as race, religion, political parties or socioeconomic status. When people discover shared experiences or aspirations, they are less likely to view others as “different” or “alien.”
Fostering empathy and compassion.
Recognizing common ground cultivates empathy and compassion for others. Understanding the shared human experiences, challenges, and aspirations fosters a sense of interconnectedness and a desire to help one another. One of the things I try to remember is we humans are vulnerable to a primary attribution error. Which is basically, “When I’m being a jerk it’s because of the current environment but when somebody else is being a jerk it’s because they are a jerk … ”
Building a better future.
Finding common ground is essential for building a better future for all. By working together on shared goals, such as environmental sustainability, education, affordable housing, and healthcare we can each make our little part of the world better for everybody.
By the way, in real-life applications I’ve learned common ground sometimes means not talking about religion and politics. I have many good friends who I am at the opposite end of the spectrum with on such topics. I usually either try to stay clear of those topics or gently traverse them keeping my friends’ feelings in mind.
My point here is it’s very possible to disagree wholeheartedly with people on some issues and still be good friends. Most of us have a lot more common goals than we do differences. Sometimes, finding those commonalities takes a little work, but it’s well worth the effort.
John Zakour lives in Geneva. He is a freelance humor writer with a bachelor’s in computer science from SUNY Potsdam and a master’s in human behavior. He is a chief happiness practitioner. He has sold thousands of gags to strips and magazines and had over 50 books published. He writes his own syndicated comic, “Working Daze,” which has anywhere from 30K-100K daily readers. His “Positive Vibes” column runs every Thursday. Contact him at johnzakour@gmail.com. Or, check out his blog at workingdaze.blogspot.com.
POSITIVE VIBES: Finding common ground
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21.03.2024
In a world where there is a lot of division and, well, arguing, finding common ground has become more important than ever before.
Common ground is about looking for shared values, beliefs, or interests that can bridge differences and create a better understanding between individuals, groups, or nations. Instead of “I’m right, you’re wrong,” try to find points we have in common.
I believe that MOST people do share some common goals. Working toward finding these goals will help us all get along better, or at least understand each other a bit more.
Here are a few reasons why finding common ground is almost always more productive:
Build bridges to understanding each other.
Common ground serves as a bridge that connects people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. By finding shared values and interests, people can transcend their differences and establish a foundation for mutual respect and cooperation or at the very least less mistrust of each other.
Resolving conflicts peacefully.
In conflict situations, finding common ground can be instrumental in........
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