Often parties in a dispute are so emotionally connected to their perceptions of the other party that moving toward a voluntary resolution is not possible without help and guidance from a professional mediator. So, how can you overcome your emotions during mediation without feeling like you are losing :
First, each party should be Willing to allow the mediator to guide the process toward resolution - that's the W.
Second, each party should be Honest with the mediator during the process even if one must ask to share some details in private - that's the H.
Third, each party should be Open to the possibility of finding a resolution to some or all of the issues presented - that's the O.
Remember that mediation is a process which works best when you participate willingly, share honestly and remain open to the possibility of finding an agreeable resolution to your dispute. Mediation offers no guarantees but if a resolution is possible, the W.H.O. is your best chance to get to it.
John R. Surprenant, JD
