Leadership

Possible: 8 key ideas

by William Ury

The core ideas of Possible, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 8

   Conflict can be transformed

   Ury argues that conflict itself is not the enemy and cannot be eliminated.

   The goal is to transform destructive conflict into constructive forms where differences are handled with curiosity and respect.

2. IDEA 2 OF 8

   Be a possibilist

   Ury describes himself as a possibilist, someone who believes better outcomes are possible even when situations seem hopeless.

   This attitude focuses on what can be done rather than on blame.

3. IDEA 3 OF 8

   Go to the balcony

   Ury's first step is to step back mentally, as if watching from a balcony, before reacting.

   Pausing helps people stay calm, see the bigger picture and remember what they truly want.

4. IDEA 4 OF 8

   Build a golden bridge

   Ury's second step is to make it easier for the other side to move toward agreement.

   A golden bridge offers attractive options that let opponents say yes without losing face.

5. IDEA 5 OF 8

   Engage the third side

   Ury's third step is to involve the surrounding community, such as friends, neighbours and mediators.

   This third side can help calm tensions and encourage both parties toward peace. Communities have always helped settle disputes.

6. IDEA 6 OF 8

   Listen to understand

   Ury stresses listening deeply to the other side's needs and fears.

   Understanding what drives opponents often reveals solutions that neither side had imagined. Curiosity, he says, matters more than winning debates.

7. IDEA 7 OF 8

   Stories show it works

   Ury shares experiences from decades of mediating disputes around the world, including political conflicts.

   These stories illustrate how small steps can open paths to agreement. Some of his cases involved wars and civil conflicts.

8. IDEA 8 OF 8

   Everyone can be a peacemaker

   Ury argues that these skills are useful in families, workplaces and communities as well as in international politics.

   He encourages readers to see themselves as active contributors to peace. Peace begins in daily life.