In principle, 90 percent of disease prevention and curing is done at home and in families. We all practice health care. We help each other eat well, get rest, and we take care of each other when sick. Only sometimes do we see a doctor or some other medical professional. Same with collaborative decisions: 90 percent of conflict prevention and resolution is done at home and in families. We help each other see things differently, we settle arguments, and we offer compassion and advice to those in conflict. Similarly, we all do the work of collaborative decisions in our jobs and in community groups. Only sometimes do we hire a facilitator or mediator.
Practical Tip: Just as I take 90 percent responsibility for my own health and my family’s health, I take 90 percent responsibility for peace and good decision making in the groups I belong to. To do it well I educate myself about what really works, beyond wives’ tales, and I try to actually do what I learn. Also, I self-diagnose. I ask, “What did I do today that contributed to a more peaceful world?” And, “How could I do better?” Like a sick person visualizing themselves as healthy, I try to see myself as a peacemaker. I don’t need a license to practice.
– Craig Freshley
Click here for one-page PDF of this Tip, a great way to print or share.
You are the yogi of decision-making, Craig!
Thank you for the tip, Craig. Well thought-out, well written and very timely with school beginning again!
I’d repeat this reply in 2018. Very nice!
Craig,
I always read your pieces – some more quickly than others.
While I consistently like what I read, this one REALLY resonates for me.
Thanks for this special work that you do, and the heart that you bring to it.
Keep up the great work. I am grateful to be on “the list”.
Nice Craig! I like the analogy of family self help and extending the principle to our work with groups. I completely agree that we need to help build capacity to self help and prevent conflict. Many thanks!