07/18/2022
Divorce is “Design.”
Before going to law school and becoming a mediator, I worked for several companies as a designer. (Graphic design, web design, and product design).
Design is the process of envisioning a desired outcome, determining what it will take to achieve that outcome, and then tinkering with your solutions until you get them just right. It’s a wonderful process.
As a mediator, I try to apply ‘design thinking’ to every case I work on.
Rather than thinking, “These two parties have a conflict. This is a problem.” I try to think, “These parties both have strong desires. What kind of solutions can we come up with together that will make all of their wishes possible?”
It’s not perfect. In fact, it is often very messy. However, by focusing on the outcomes everyone yearns for – instead of only on the obstacles that are right in front of them – we often get farther, faster, and everyone leaves the room much happier.
So, if you’re going through a divorce, try thinking of it as an opportunity to design the next phase of your life, and let your attorney and mediator support you throughout the process.
If you’re curious about design thinking and mediation, check out this great presentation from Upchurch Watson White & Max Mediation Group:
https://youtu.be/r7F41eLcMFU
