In negotiation bend like the willow --- Yes, Biljana, the word ‘unbending’ does imply rigidity. An analogy occurred to me. The practice of yoga consists of various postures (asanas) to promote flexibility and strength; and all asanas include bending and stretching; even when seated there is a measure of physical tension and mental control .

Seated at the negotiation table one may be reminded of yoga since the word ‘asana’ derives from the Sanskrit “to be seated.”

In the alternative to the unyielding rigidity of “unbending, I would propose another metaphor. May one bend like a willow in the wind but not break. The metaphor encompasses a spectrum of human intention from the resolute to the flexible – yielding like the willow whenever prudent, and essential to stretch a little more to prevent being broken by the wind. A good posture and temperament to adopt in any negotiation.

Source author: John D. Hipsley jhipsley@igc.org