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Amy Peach

Director of Instructional Technology, Fontbonne University, St Louis, MO USA

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When do you keep pushing and when is it time to give up?

Learning to pick battles is an important life lesson. While working with people who have very different views is valuable in many respects, when does it cross the line into a battle of egos that doesn't move you closer to a goal? Please share experiences and insights you've had...be they professional or personal.

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    Kate Blake 50+

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    Jan 16 2013: For most of my life I used to try to convince others of my point of view until I finally realised that it was ONLY my point of view. For the most part others are really only interested in expounding their prespective on things, so I allow them to and quietly move on.

    As soon as I see someone with an open mind, someone keen to engage, listen and learn then let the debate begin. There is then a common ground to engage on - look at any TED conversation for lessons on this one. But the most clear illustrations are on that one about "amending or repealing the second amendment", very few there on either side are willing to listen and engage on any meaningful level they are just there to literally push their own agenda. BUT two there have the ability to communicate particularly well whilst negotiating the hazards of very biased opinions. Watch them for clues, examples.
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      Amy Peach

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      Jan 16 2013: I absolutely agree, Kate. The only time I have a problem with someone's opinion when it is vastly different from my own is when it impacts policy in some way that I know is extremely detrimental. I like Fritzie's idea of influence and how that might be applicable in situations like that.
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        Kate Blake 50+

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        Jan 16 2013: Mary M is right and I wasn't aware you were talking of a professional interaction.

        When such ago impacts on policies or staff below then its an opportunity to look for skilful ways to mellow their attitude and influence is essential. Am quite sure you have the skills to find a compromise.

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