Harnessing the Power of Mediation

Is Mediation Just a Negotiation Tool? Do we harness the power of mediation?

Although mediation has surpassed negotiation and compromise in understanding and definition, in my experience, most people think of positions, negotiations, compromise, and settlement when they hear the word mediation. While these terms will always be associated with mediation, isn’t it time to recognise its full potential and allow the public to reap its benefits?
My experience has taught me that mediation is more than a conflict resolution tool. Due to its inherent nature, it is a platform for creating opportunities, possibilities, and wealth.
Mediation:
·     can explore all facets of a conflict, including emotional, legal, and commercial dimensions, and navigate complex dynamics where law is limited and incapable of;
·     give attention to the parties and the conflict itself, empowering parties to see opportunities and possibilities never seen before;
·     come into creative and sustainable outcomes that generate wealth;
·     an opportunity to be self-aware and vulnerable, which reveals the inherent peace within and
·     The list goes on……..

I do not intend to imply that every mediation should involve all the characters. Mediation's inherent beauty lies in its adaptability to the parties and circumstances. However, in my practical experience, more than 70% of mediations can produce more powerful outcomes than anyone imagined at the outset.
My questions are: Do the public, business owners, lawyers, and mediators know about this possibility? Do we adequately explore these possibilities in mediation, particularly regarding the preparation of clients and lawyers? How can we convey the full benefits of mediation to the public at large?

What’s your take? Have you experienced or witnessed mediation create something extraordinary? Let’s start a conversation about the true potential of mediation!