Working with Mindfulness: Mindfulness and Conflict Resolution

Mirabai Bush, a key adviser to Google’s Search Inside Yourself curriculum, explores the role of mindfulness in negotiations with George Kohlrieser, an organizational and clinical psychologist, High-Performance Leadership professor at IMD, and veteran hostage negotiator.

Professor Kohlrieser focuses on his experience with applying mindfulness methods to promote calmness and compassion during negotiations and difficult conversations.

“We know that when the brain is calm you listen better,” said Professor Kohlrieser. “Mindfulness can create a foundation for emotional bonding that allows you to be fully present and authentic during dialogues or a discussion. A mindful approach to entering difficult conversations keeps both parties out of the heat of emotions and able to explore the needs, wants and interests on both sides. Judgement is suspended and, with a strong bond, the mind is able to focus on and look for the mutual benefit of the common goal.”