Partnerships are tough.  They sound great when you start out and maybe are even necessary to make a viable business.  But they come with tons of baggage.  Because both parties are human.  And they have their own needs, desires and goals.  And at times, these conflict with each other.  Sometimes over the most minor things.  I’ve worked with partners who have NO agreement defining their relationship whatsoever.  Can you imagine the potential for major conflict?  Imagine!  On the other hand, I’ve worked with partners where the relationship was defined in great detail.  Except the one thing they hadn’t talked about or agreed on.  And it all went south. 

So what’s a partnership in trouble do?  Seek outside facilitation.  Not lawyers (at least not yet).  Agree that it’s important to work out the differences before they affect the partnership long-term.  Rediscover why you went into partnership in the first place. Then work from there to seek resolution and agreement on a way forward.  Find common goals.  Find out the true differences that are driving conflict. Facts on the table.  It is possible.  It’s going to take work.  It won’t be easy or comfortable.  But unless you’re willing to pay the price for just walking away, it’s worth the effort to resolve the conflict in your partnership.

Check back in as we continue talking about ways to win your battles – in your head, in the boardroom, on your team, and more!