Alignment that sticks
Use EQ patterns to reduce churn and get decisions.
Test your alignment EQWhy this works
Shared understanding plus quick, reversible choices unblock teams and speed decisions.
Try these drills
Summarize before you argue
1 minute- State the other view in one clear line.
- Ask: 'Did I get that right?'
- Share your view and suggest the next step.
Outcome: Lowers heat and builds shared understanding.
Mechanism: When people feel understood, defensiveness drops. Then logic lands and you can reach agreement faster.
Two‑minute decision loop
2 minutes- Write one sentence that defines success.
- List two or three options.
- Pick a reversible option and set a review time.
Outcome: Avoids overthinking and moves work forward.
Mechanism: Short time boxes force a good‑enough choice now; picking a reversible option lowers risk so you keep momentum.
Scripts
Scope or deadline reset
- you: With the new scope, we can hit Friday if we drop X and Y. If we keep scope, next Wednesday is realistic. Which do you prefer?
Why this works: Naming trade‑offs makes the cost visible and invites a choice, so deadlines match reality without drama.
What to measure
- time to decision
- reversal rate
- confidence post decision
FAQ
Will these scripts sound robotic?▼
They are templates. Use your own words. Simple beats clever.
What if the other person gets upset?▼
Return to a short summary, name the impact, and suggest the next step.