While perusing (okay, devouring!) the new brochure from the Option Institute, one of my favourite places to study and a great place to visit on the web, I noticed a small, out of focus photograph taken from a class. On a board in the center of the room was written "The Principles of Happy Negotiation". Several minutes and a trip to the store to buy a magnifying glass later, I was able to copy these points down....

The Principles of Happy Negotiation
(I assume the copyright is with Barry Neil Kaufman and the Option Institute!)
1. You can negotiate anything.
2. There are no good or bad wants - only wants.
3. Your happiness does not depend on getting what you want.
4. Each of you is responsible for your own happiness.
5. Eliminate unhappy forms of motivation. (complaining, whining, guilt, anger, ultimatum, victim mentality)
6. Be specific in exactly what you want.
7. Be prepared to offer something of value to the other in exchange for what you want.
8. Be persistent.
9. Prioritise being loving.

Today's Experiment:
1. Think of three negotiations - one you had that went well, one you had that went poorly, and one you have not yet had but is imminent.

2. For each negotiation, imagine how it would be different if you applied the principles of happy negotiation.

3. Have fun and learn heaps!

PRINTABLE VERSION HERE

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