Over the last few days, I’ve had several moments of misunderstanding and miscommunication with a good friend.

Our differences in culture, experience, and upbringing would prompt us to react divergently in situations that felt obvious to the other. Add on a tight timeline, limited resources, and not enough sleep – emotions would run hot, and we would slip into being reactive rather than reflective.

When it comes to #diversity of thought, the benefits are apparent, but only if we can maintain the ability to communicate and be compassionate with one another.

One way to encourage patience and compassion is to take the time to align on both values and outcomes. Then the understanding can take care of itself.