SET THINGS IN ORDER FOR THE NEW YEAR ! Lessons learned "in the thick of it". My name is Stewart Levine. For over 25 years, I've been working with people in conflict, in all types of situations. From feuding partners to disgruntled employees, frustrated consumers to divorcing couples, divided teams to struggling salespeople -- I've been right there in the thick of it, helping to resolve impossible situations, and saving thousands of relationships. It's been my lifelong career. Over that 25 years, I've discovered exactly what works, and what doesn't work when it comes to preventing and resolving conflict. Fighting and "barking" at each other is a silly, ineffective way to solve problems. Lawyers have a mantra: "if everyone is unhappy, you have a good settlement." Pardon my French, but that's #!@*)%! As a high stakes "player" in the legal profession, it became clear to me that the formal, mystical process we lawyers walk people through, often becomes more about the "lawyer's case" than solving the persons problem. It was very frustrating. Whether it's a divorce, a business dispute, or organizational breakdown, it's never about what people say they're fighting about - it's always about their emotions. That's why I show people how to start off with a meeting of mind and heart. Beginning with a thoughtful, frank discussion on the front end, and reaching a joint vision of the outcome is much more powerfully efficient than trying to "win" a disagreement later. We succeed in life by forming agreements, agreements with others and ourselves. In fact, the ability to craft effective agreements, and collaborative partnerships is a fundamental life skill critical to your success in business, sales, leadership, and professions of every kind. But surprisingly, agreement is a skill we were never taught. A "resolutionary" solution. The traditional idea is to create agreements for protection that focus on providing remedies for what goes wrong. This seems logical, but one of main causes of agreement breakdown is that the process of forming the agreement is seen as negotiating - an adversarial process each party tries to win. What if we shifted the context of the process of forming agreements from adversarial, win/lose negotiating to a joint visioning process that articulates an inclusive vision of outcomes, and generates a clear road map to desired results? What if we learned to design agreements that express a joint vision that satisfies everyone? What if you can easily benefit from this life-changing approach in your business, career, relationships and life? The results would be resolutionary! Discover the "Power of Agreement" I've created a new series of resources and programs that show you in step-by-step detail all the most effective success strategies I've developed over 25 years. It's different than anything you've seen. Traditional mediation, and advice of this kind, typically focus on what to do when you're already in a conflict. Living By Agreement not only shows you how to resolve conflict, but also what to do to prevent it. Once you get this information, you'll be able to use it to lead more effectively, advance your career, get more business, and enjoy better results in your daily life. Want to learn more? READ ON... LIVING BY AGREEMENT With less focus on the purely psychological Are you... beginning a new job...a new personal or work relationship ? AGREEMENTS FOR RESULTS What do most of us seek in our personal and professional lives ? RELATIONSHIPS > Relationships at work that are stress and conflict free > Relationships with our children that > Relationships with "professionals" we hire that DEVELOPING EFFECTIVE AGREEMENTS FOR RESULTS IS A FUNDAMENTAL COMPETENCE FOR ALL ACCOMPLISHMENT! AGREEMENTS FOR RESULTS LEAD TO SATISFYING PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL RELATIONSHIPS! In "Living by Agreement" you will learn how to create covenantal relationships that are based on shared commitment to ideas, issues, values, goals and process. Covenant is the true source of real teamwork, and is a key ingredient for having a "Family" at work and a "Family" at home. And family is the source of the richness and fulfillment we seek. With covenants in place results beyond expectation follow. When you start any new project or relationship you need the tools to put in place a road map that reminds you of what you want to accomplish, and how to get there. If you're deep in conflict "The Art of Agreement" provides a Conversational Process to Resolution. Dealing with conflict effectively provides huge benefits. The ability to resolve conflict and form effective working relationships impacts the core of every personal relationship, and every organizational function - teaming, managing, partnering, customer servicing, producing, innovating, learning, collaborating and diversity. Ongoing CHANGE in our institutions and the environment we live in is generating significant conflict for individuals and organizations; and great opportunity. Unfortunately, most people do not know how to prevent conflict; and they are also conflict adverse. Most of us don't fully engage conflict until it becomes acute. By then the costs of conflict are staggering: 1.) paying professionals; 2.) lost productivity; 3.) opportunity cost; 4.) cost of replacing employees; 5.) loss of the benefits of continuing relationships; and 6.) the emotional cost that eats at the fabric of every person and organization's spirit. When people do engage with conflict they often only deal with symptoms. They resist getting near the real source of conflict. The agreements they think resolve their conflicts don't ! In "Living By Agreement" you will learn how to create and the value of: * Creating Agreements for Results You will also learn... What to measure to convince you that continuing the conflict makes you a loser. You'll discover kernels of wisdom that can save you years of pain and frustration: 1. Why all conflict takes place at the level of personality. LIVING BY AGREEMENT IS GUARANTEED TO PROVIDE THESE BENEFITS: * Improved Health WHO SHOULD ATTEND: * People in Personal or Business CONFLICT WHEN: January 30-31 WHERE: San Francisco Bay Area. Location TBA INVESTMENT: $ 295 Course Fee NO RISK UNCONDITIONAL GUARANTEE: If you attend the entire seminar and for any reason you are not satisfied with the experience you can ask for a refund and it will be granted, no questions asked. Stewart Levine is a trainer, mediator, and facilitator dedicated to resolving conflict and fostering collaboration for individuals, couples, families, business and other organizations. He spent ten years practicing law before becoming an award winning marketing executive at AT&T where he was recognized as a pioneer "intrapreneur." He has been featured among the "Trend Setters" in the legal profession. His book "Getting to Resolution: Turning Conflict into Collaboration" (Berrett-Koehler 1998) was an Executive Book Club Selection; Featured by Executive Book Summaries; named one of the 30 Best Business Books of1998; endorsed by Dr. Stephen Covey and featured in "The Futurist" magazine. "The Book of Agreement" (Berrett-Koehler 2002) has been endorsed by many thought leaders including Alan Weiss, Mark Victor Hansen, Harrison Owen, Geoff Bellman, Jim Kouzes, Robert Fritz and Robert Allen. It has been called "more pragmatic than [the classic] 'Getting to Yes. '" Information: www.ResolutionWorks.org.
Stewart creates agreement and empowerment. He models what he teaches. He is a powerful educator. Else Tomayo, Personnel Director, University of San Francisco This has been an amazing journey of self discovery through the mirror reflection of other. Stewart, your workshop has assisted me in having a deeper understanding and a greater excitement in becoming pro-active in the development of what I want to create in my life, and knowing that it is not cast in concrete. Donna Stone You are getting high praise from all quarters, even from the hard-to-please state bureaucrats. Thanks for your good work and being the kind of professional I can count on to bring out the best in people. You helped to surface some old, old wounds that had scarred over without healing. I feel much more optimistic about the project, but also about all of our shared work with the district staff. You are an extraordinary facilitator. You resolve issues that stifle productivity and create partnership where everyone thought it was impossible. Gail Johnson, Sierra Adoption Services The model transcends all lines of management. I have seen my direct reports become empowered as they have input into their work. Stewart Levine has developed an important innovation. Jan Gould, Membership Director, Visa USA. We're forging a unique organization based on shared goals and objectives, mutual trust and affection. We've made real progress in improving teamwork and communication. We are recognizing conflicts and how to resolve them. Mark Jansen, CEO, Real Estate Infolink A whole new insight into conflict management and core conversational skills. This is a valuable contribution to personal and organizational development. Tim Reeves, Manager of BusinessEducation, Nestle Beverage I learned 1.) that conflict is not a bad thing and can be used to create a better environment if managed properly; 2.) that everyone deals with conflict differently; and 3.) how to keep a cool head and solve problems in an efficient manner. Janet Anderson The subject matter of your presentation and the thought-provoking interaction required during your sessions will be resources used by attendees throughout their careers. Robert Rigsby, Esq; Corporate Counsel, District of Columbia An outstanding training presentation. Jeff Knishkowy, Director of Conflict Prevention and Resolution, USDA It's always a treat to watch, listen and learn from a master. Maya Lynn Gon-Sarela, University of San Francisco Your workshop on Agreements and Conflict Resolution is a powerful learning experience. I am using your model in many business situations. It is very useful for teaming and managing client relationships and negotiating large sales or contracts. TG Struttman, Caterpillar Inc,OC If your goal is to learn new skills consider Levine's course. San Francisco Recorder Stewart has developed models for conflict resolution that could revolutionize the way we speak, communicate and settle our differences. Dan Corsello, Director, Napa County Health and Human Services The model provides a helpful road map in dealing with difficult internal office relationships, disputes, personnel problems. Stefan Rosensweig, Esq., Executive Director, Public Advocates, Inc. A visionary is someone who thinks. A Resolutionary is someone that thinks and implements a plan to make positive change. The world can only be changed and improved when people take the time and energy to make things happen. You are making a difference. Mitch Markota, US Naval Air Station, China Lake We have been seeing each other since we met in your workshop 6 weeks ago. Though we live 60 miles apart, no conflicts have arisen to resolve, just plenty of open communications, shared vision and flowing bliss. A graceful side benefit of your powerful intentions, Stewart, and the peace-full work environment you create. Thanks. Workshop Participant Your techniques can be used to prevent healthy, creative tension from escalating into conflict. Charlie Stein, NSA The balanced approach that your model suggests is what I believe creates the possibility of long term resolution, the ability to shift conflict into collaboration. Thank you for shifting my thinking in a way that will allow me to more fully bring myself, my training, and experience to the field of mediation. Bill Zybach, USDA I enjoyed your message of expediency and the ways to avoid the waste of organizational resources. Terry Rielly, Swenson Spreader The model provides a helpful road map in dealing with difficult internal office relationships, disputes, personnel problems. Stefan Rosensweig, Esq., Executive Director, Public Advocates, Inc. Judy and I really enjoyed your class and we're really enjoying working through conflicts with your model. The few days we spent in the group were extraordinary; we thought about creating agreements at a depth we'd never experienced before. We have already short circuited recurring arguments by crafting agreements like we learned to do in the seminar. Thank you again for bringing the distinction of agreement to our relationship. Thank you for presenting such an excellent program to the Defense Research Institute. You lead a roomful of legal know-it-alls to a fool proof technique for avoiding the unnecessary communication problems.. I find I am getting along better at the office with staff, at home with my teenagers, and at the courthouse with clients and adversaries alike. Thank you so much for sharing your insight and wisdom. F.Ford Loker, Esq., Maryland State DRI Representative WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT THE BOOK OF AGREEMENT We all want agreement. Here's how to get it and keep it and work it. Mark Victor Hansen Co-creator, #1 New Your Times best selling series Chicken Soup for the Soul. Years of experience inform this thought-provoking book. It brought to mind many experiences in which I succeeded or failed. Now, I know why! This book combines lofty aspiration with on-the-ground application. It speaks to your ideals and your practicality. Stewart describes the agreements we aspire to, tells you how to avoid the calamities you fear, and how to get the results you want. Geoff Bellman, Consultant and Author of Getting Things Done When You Are Not in Charge Once again, Stewart Levine is on the cutting edge. The Book of Agreement reflects the trend in the law that shifts the focus away from the past and fear of what may go wrong to a new framework of generating futures with contracts that actually create and sustain relationships. Stewart doesn't just talk about this new approach, he illustrates it. Lawyers will find this a how-to manual for practicing law in the new paradigm. Non-lawyers will find it a breath of fresh air that inspires them to put their visions on paper--not just for their business deals but for every relationship in their lives! Imagine, for example, having a contract with your spouse that creates the vision and structures for your life together! How about a contract with your parents that designs a new future? In this new paradigm, contracts are wonderful tools for communication and expression. The Book of Agreement shows how to build a foundation of integrity in all areas of our lives and work. J. Kim Wright, Esq., President and Founder of Renaissance Lawyer Society. Stewart Levine provides very useful tools for lawyers and clients who want to prevent and manage FUTURE conflicts by addressing PRESENT differences. His models will help people forming new collaborations deal more effectively with differences of perspective, and the many unknowns of a partnership, so that they can work together to create a stronger partnership, prevent hostility, and better manage conflicts that surface.. Frederick Hertz, Esq., Attorney, Mediator, Adjunct Professor, Golden Gate University School of Law, author Legal Affairs (Henry Holt, 1998.) It is the unmet, unvoiced expectations that lead to conflict and disappointment. This model outlines a way to discuss and articulate our expectations clearly, to listen to the expectations that others have for us, and to reach agreement on the roles, promises, benchmarks, and procedures that must follow. Using his approach minimize disappointment, maximizes cooperation, and leads to desired outcome. The process of creating this kind of agreement can deepen relationships, strengthen commitment to goals, and nurture the spirit of cooperation and partnership. These are simple and powerful tools all children should learn. D'Arcy Lyness, Ph.D., Child Psychologist; Adjunct Professor, Saint Josephs University Jean Paul Sartre once wrote, 'Hell is other people.' Many of us who have difficult coworkers and bosses would certainly agree! So, must we simply resign ourselves to conflict as a natural part of humans living and working together? Now more than ever, we need to learn how to work toward agreement, rather than let conflict tear us apart. Stewart Levine's new book is an important step in the right direction. BJ Gallagher Hateley, coauthor of "What Would Buddha Do at Work?" and "A Peacock in the Land of Penguins" Agreements that serve everyone well help us to create a cooperative civilization -- one that can creatively include competition and conflict, as well as love and community, even among strangers. Stewart Levine provides some sensible tools here to build that civilization together, piece by piece, as the need arises in our own lives and work. Tom Atlee, founder of The Co-Intelligence Institute. What do Walt Whitman, Lao Tzu, the Viking Runes and Bernard Baruch have in common? They are all part of Stewart Levine's innovative Book of Agreement. Most books on legal subjects are efficient, dry and erudite. Stewart's book uses the heart to inform the mind. What results is an enduring work that teaches a common sense process for reaching sustainable agreements in our business lives and personal relationships. George Kaufman, Esq., author, The Lawyer's Guide to Balancing Life and Work, Vice Chair, Omega Institute, formerly of counsel, Arnold & Porter Stewart Levine has given us all a gift. This book will re-shape our relationships in profound ways, the result of which will be performance and joy. He show's us a new paradigm for developing clear and satisfying relationships and purpose. This book moves collaboration to new levels of understanding. Can we eliminate misunderstanding and conflict? Maybe not entirely, but this book comes as close to showing a way as never before. Peter B. Grazier, President, Teambuildinginc.com, Author, Before it's Too Late and Power Up For Team Results This handy guide is a must-have for any working person's shelf. Whether moving to agreement in the office or in the home, the notion of getting advice from someone who has "been there" and "done that" is a gift. To be successful in any organization requires agility and ability in the practice of agreement. Stewart Levine explains the art and the science of this elusive word beautifully. Readers will quickly be able to apply his ideas, suggestions, and experience to their lives. He maps the confusing and difficult territory of agreement so that all of us can make this difficult process easier. Thank you Stewart, I wish I had this sooner! Beverly Kaye, Co-Author of Love 'Em or Lose 'Em: Getting Good People to Stay; Author, Up is Not The Only Way; Founder, President, Career Systems International In this wise and humane book, Stewart Levine makes it clear once and for all that our standard approaches to building agreements must change. More than that, he provides the tools -- both philosophical and practical -- for individuals and institutions to transform their approaches and in so doing build a better world. Steven Keeva, Assistant Managing Editor, American Bar Association Journal; Author, Transforming Practices: Finding Joy and Satisfaction in the Legal Life Stewart's book reminds us how agreements pervade every aspect of our life, and provides the reader with a clear roadmap to more effective agreement making. After practicing law for 25 years, both as a trial lawyer and a General Counsel, I never imagined that a book about agreements could be such a refreshing and enjoyable read! I recommend this book to all lawyers seriously interested in obtaining greater insight and understanding of how to turn conflict into agreement. Shelby Rogers, Chief Operating Officer & General Counsel, State Bar of Texas; and former Chair, Law Practice Management Section, American Bar Association. Stewart Levine has managed to bring his years of considerable experience plus his wit, charm, and clarity to a book that will enable the reader to come to true agreement. While this book is useful to anyone, it can be especially helpful to the business leader and the world leader. Bravo. Robert Fritz, Author, The Path of Least Resistance, Creating, and The Path of Least Resistance for Managers.
Stewart has distilled the best of the contracts process, then stretched it, deepened it, broadened it. I can imagine that, because of this book, many artists and lovers and business people, etc. will take time to ponder such questions as "What do we want to create? What do we need from each other to make that happen?" When they do so, they will find that The Book of Agreement offers wise counsel on how to craft agreements that come from the heart, the soul and the best minds of all parties. As they fulfill their agreements, they will spread a lot more peace and joy in the world. A world where people live and work from a base of vision and mutual respect. That's the kind of world I want to live in, and this book goes a long way towards making that happen. Thank you, Stewart Levine. Pat Sullivan, Paralegal; principal, Visionary Resources; Author, Work with Meaning, Work with Joy: How to Bring Your Spirit to Any Job; former columnist San Francisco Chronicle Business Section;
A marvelous book. By contrasting the old "win/lose" paradigm with the new "win/win" paradigm, Levine focuses on a number-one problem. Namely, how we solve problems. The mind set, the skill set, and the context are beautifully interwoven in this well illustrated analysis. Dr. Stephen Covey, author The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People Solomonic solution to your stress and suffering. Getting to Resolution offers a roadmap to finding common ground with reduced acrimony on the part of both parties. Levine should have called it Getting to Relationship. Conflicts can be successfully resolved while preserving the relationship. I highly recommend this optimistic self-help manual. Dr. Lawrence Richard, J.D., Ph.D. The model he creates goes to the heart of our relationship with ourselves and with all others in the world. He injects a conscious awareness into the process of deciding that brings us to a level of personal responsibility from which we can expand our lives. I recommend this book to all who seek to become more aware of their decisions and the impact of those decisions. David Rotman, Esq. Mediator, Gregorio, Haldeman & Piazza Levine's experiences have given him the ability to see our culture more broadly. I applaud Levine's work on driving us to understand the benefits of agreement and away from conflict. A lawyer for resolution? Bravo! Lance R. Primis, former President and COO The New York Times Company Levine's book is a must. Ultimately practical and usable. Allows you to experience the relief and satisfaction of "win-win" relationships throughout your life. Michael Lanier, former CIO Charles Schwab and DHL A book that will have value for everyone who seeks more to function effectively in society. Getting to Resolution will make it easier to use energy productively that would otherwise be wasted in confrontation. Richard W. Odgers, Esq., senior partner, Pillsbury Winthrop, former General Counsel, Pacific Telesis The book will teach you how to get the best each individual has to offer by providing a behavioral model that promotes individual contribution to problem solving. Steven J. Noble, Ph.D. former Executive Director, Human Resources Planning Society The power of reaching collaboration by giving up the need to win is illuminated by real stories about real people. The book shows the importance of learning to listen and learning that we all have the ability to produce new results. Reaching agreement is the joyous outcome of a process of discovery and mutual commitment. Nina B. Link, CEO and Executive Director, The Magazine Publishers Association An important tool for the hectic time we live in. A reminder that civilization rests on our ability to communicate with each other. Lord Graham of Edmonton, Chief Whip House of Lords An important book with a vital message. Reading this book is an investment in positive results. Fred Pryor, Founder and Chairman Fred Pryor Seminars His plan will go a long way to reducing the stress involved in collaborating with others and achieving a resolution which all parties find acceptable. A must read. Law Practice Management Magazine Promotes a new way of thinking that shifts our focus from rights and entitlements to service and responsibility. Financial Sentinal Tools that get to the core of every conflict. Dayton News He has developed techniques to resolve conflict and maximize satisfaction among all parties involved. ...Levine's approach is refreshingly practical. Booklist His process has real application...He makes the process accessible...Recommended for all public Libraries. Library Journal
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