... according to Lee Jay Berman, founder of AIM faculty & a terrific mediator. He was recently interviewed by Aled Davies on the topic of overcoming impasse in mediation. He describes that phase of mediation as essentially hitting a "pause", at the point where the parties are faced with having to cross over the line of their expectations, have become frustrated, and dig in their heels. I share Lee Jay's belief that what can seem an "impasse" is really a "pause" in the process

In a recent pre-lit mediation, defendant accepted responsibility for what happened, and wanted to meet with & apologize to plaintiff (and counsel). Plaintiff's counsel expressed cynicism about motives and credibility. Although I pointed out the opportunity to assess credibility as a benefit of the meeting, plus the defendant's "need" to have this meeting to apologize and discuss, plaintiff would not budge. The defendant was saddened and disappointed, which feelings pervaded t

Speaking of "Difficult" Conversations, I recommend reading the book, "Difficult Conversations" by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton & Sheila Heen. It is helpful in negotiations, as well as in our personal and business lives. Book: Difficult Conversations

“Mediation is the process of facilitating a difficult conversation between two or more people. So there are many lessons” ... Aled Davies Pointers from Aled Davies to help start and have those "difficult" conversations ... click link below http://bit.ly/187q5OI