One Way to Reduce Others’ Resistance

One Way to Reduce Others’ Resistance to Your Ideas and Decisions

When my girls were toddlers, I discovered the power of presenting options. If I said, “Put on this shirt” or “It’s time for bed,” rebellion inevitably ensued. But if I asked, “Which of these two shirts do you want to wear?” or “Would you like to go to bed now or in three minutes?” instead of throwing tantrums, they thoughtfully considered their choices with all the weight and authority of mini monarchs and informed me of their decisions. (Bedtime in three minutes, duh.)

As it turns out, adults aren’t as different from toddlers as we’d like to think. We’re just bigger, more articulate, potty trained, and (usually) more subtle in our tantrums. You and the adults in your life still want the power to choose. Sure, some people are more accommodating than others and easier to boss around. But of course, bossing people around is not leadership; it does not produce long-term results, critical thinking skills, or strong relationships.

There definitely is a time and a place in leadership for issuing directives and telling people what to do. You are not only responsible for yourself, but for a larger team or organization. Therefore, it is your responsibility to make and enforce decisions that take the entire group into account…