(Distinctions are subtleties of language that, when gotten, cause a shift in a belief, behavior, value or attitude.)

 

Being engaged in a process is a useful way to get things accomplished and it s normal to interact with others during the process. However, you can cross a line and have the process begin to work against you. The line that is crossed is when the process is really a veiled attempt to push your personal agenda.

The difference?

When engaged in a process all players can see how accomplishing the process will give them — individually — a chance to win. Ideally, the process would have been designed with the participation of all or, at the least, each player would have had the objectives of the process explained so they could see how they could win.

When you push an agenda it s all about you. Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead! You need something. Everybody may win, but your only real concern is about you.

 

Coaching Point: What part of you bristles at the thought that having an agenda may not serve you?

 

Copyright 2005 Steve Straus. All rights reserved.