Every time you face a situation that is challenging or that brings up your defensive mechanisms, begin by asking yourself, “In this moment, would I prefer to be RIGHT or to be HAPPY?” Have the courage to elicit feedback from those around you: ask beautiful, open-ended questions that seek to clarify intent. Allow yourself to be surprised and enlightened, to see things from a new perspective. If you can’t engage in a conversation, dream into alternate explanations for the behavior of others, and find novel ways of responding. Compassion and humor will serve you well in this.

For further exploration, see The 7 Acts of Courage, pp. 101-103.