When two parties are embroiled in conflict, it’s difficult to come to an agreement when multiple egos are involved. Each party is often eager to prove that they have the right answer and that the other person is wrong. This can lead to a stalemate where no one wins and both sides feel frustrated and resentful.

Fortunately, there is a better way: surrendering the need to be right. By releasing our own ego-driven desires and truly listening to the other side, we can work together towards finding common ground. When both parties let go of their pride, not only will more creative solutions emerge, but also a mutual understanding of each other’s concerns.

Surrendering our need to be right does not mean that we must lose—in fact, quite the opposite is true! When both sides trust each other enough to be vulnerable with one another, true collaboration takes shape, and everyone benefits from the results. Solutions become more holistic and sustainable as much greater potential for progress becomes possible. In addition, by letting go of our attachment to “being right,” we create an atmosphere of openness where respect grows between both parties.

When both parties surrender their need to be right, things work out fairly and for the highest good of all concerned. Even if at first it seems counterintuitive or even impossible, genuine respect and understanding are always worth striving for in any situation involving a disagreement between two parties.

As I’ve mentioned earlier, true compromise and collaboration are usually achieved when both parties will let go of their ego-driven need to be right. Again, for that to happen, it is important for each side to take the time to truly listen and consider the other’s perspective. This enables us to come up with creative solutions that would not have been possible had we remained stuck in our own positions. We also gain a greater understanding of each other’s motivations and concerns, thus creating a more collaborative relationship between both parties. It can be difficult at first, as human beings are stubborn by nature. However, once we can look beyond those tendencies, we often find that there is a much richer array of options available when we are open-minded and willing to negotiate with one another. It takes humility, resilience, and trust—but it also results in better outcomes overall. Whether it is a slight disagreement or a larger conflict between two parties, surrendering our need to be right will help us move forward toward positive change for everyone involved.

Hence, agreeing to disagree is not about giving up or weakening our own position. Instead, it’s about taking a proactive approach to finding solutions that are beneficial for all parties involved. Looking at each other’s perspective from a different angle, if you will. This type of collaboration allows us to look at the issue from a holistic perspective and craft solutions that consider everyone’s needs. It is also important to remember that surrendering our need to be right does not mean we will get everything we want or expect in the end. We must always seek fairness and justice for all involved, even if that means we must accept compromises on both sides. However, with mutual understanding and respect, it is possible for both parties to come away feeling satisfied with the outcome. In conclusion, when both parties can put aside their egos and surrender their need to be right, things work out fairly and for the highest good of all concerned. While it can be challenging in the moment, choosing true collaboration over pride enables better understanding between everyone involved, while also resulting in more sustainable outcomes.

When we surrender our need to be right, it does not mean that we must abandon all our beliefs and values. It is a delicate balance between standing firm in what matters most to us and recognizing when it is time to negotiate and find workable solutions. It requires being honest about our motivations and understanding how they can affect the outcome of any situation. We must also develop strong communication skills if we are to truly practice surrendering our needs to be right. This means actively listening, asking clarifying questions, expressing empathy, and engaging in open-minded dialogue. These steps will ensure that everyone involved expresses their ideas and points of view without feeling dismissed or talked over. It will also pave the way for more effective problem-solving and collaboration overall. Coming together in perfect harmony requires both parties to leave their egos behind and cultivate respect for one another—regardless of how different their positions may be. When we can do this, amazing things happen—from peaceful resolutions to innovative ideas that benefit us all.

I know compromise and collaboration are not always easy. We may feel a sense of anxiety when entering discussions with people we disagree with, even if the conversations are conducted respectfully. It is natural to want to protect ourselves from potential harm or frustration, but try to remain open-minded and remember that you don’t have to take on the burdens of others. We must also recognize our own biases and preconceived notions before engaging in any dialogue. While it is important to voice our opinions and beliefs, it is also important to understand that we may not always get our way. This means accepting that there may be differences of opinion and working together through these conflicts instead of avoiding them altogether. Surrendering our need to be right involves letting go of attachment—to ideas, outcomes, beliefs, and solutions alike—and realizing that there are many paths that can lead us down the road toward progress. Choosing collaboration over conflict puts us more in line with our better angels while opening opportunities for positive change.

Nordine Zouareg and the team @InnerFitness®