"Never split the difference" is a phrase that is often used in negotiations. It means you should never compromise or settle for something less than what you want. Instead, it would be best if you strived to get the best possible deal for yourself.
The idea behind this phrase is that you should always aim for a win-win situation in a negotiation. This means that both parties should come away from the negotiation feeling like they have gotten something they want. By splitting the difference, you are essentially giving up something you want to reach an agreement with.
However, this approach can often be counterproductive. If you are constantly compromising and settling for less than what you want, you are likely to end up feeling frustrated and dissatisfied with the outcome of the negotiation. This can lead to resentment and a lack of trust between the parties involved.
Instead of compromising, you should focus on finding common ground and building a relationship with the other party. This can help you better understand their needs and interests and make it easier to find solutions that work for both parties.
To "never split the difference" does not mean that you should be inflexible or unreasonable in your negotiations. Instead, it means that you should be clear about what you want and be willing to stand firm to get it. This can help you achieve better outcomes in your negotiations and ultimately lead to more robust and successful relationships.
In summary, "never split the difference" is a valuable lesson for anyone involved in negotiations. By building relationships and finding common ground, rather than compromising and settling for less, you can achieve better outcomes and build stronger, more successful relationships.
This post was inspired by "Never Split the Difference" By Chris Voss