Steven Johnson of The New York Times contributed a fascinating essay about how best to make big decisions. As mediators, we guide parties in conflict through complex decisions – whether financial, personal or business. Regardless of the substance, emotions play a significant role in what the parties settle on as agreeable terms. What is not consistent throughout is what frames of reference resonate most for either party. Indeed, similar fact patterns in different mediations may result in vastly different terms. We, as mediators, discuss the role of the law and of lawyers as parties negotiate. We also discuss the role of societal standards, the parties’ underlying values and hopes, as well as the support of their personal “Greek Chorus.” Johnson illuminates what some may find paradoxical. That is, a diverse assembly of decision makers tend to arrive at optimal solutions. In contrast, a homogeneous assembly of decision makers tend to arrive at more satisfying solutions. https://www.nytimes.com/2018/09/01/opinion/sunday/how-make-big-decision.html