The Bridge Builder

James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal

When teams divide, most leaders defend one side of the river. The rare ones build bridges.

Bridge builders listen longer, seek common language, and create safe passage for ideas to cross. They know that progress is not found on either bank but in the middle.

This does not mean avoiding conflict. It means guiding conflict toward connection. The bridge allows people to keep their differences while still moving forward together.

At Home

Families face the same test. Parents often stand between siblings or relatives in conflict. Choosing to build the bridge instead of defending a side teaches children that differences do not have to end relationships.

Your question: Where in your world does a bridge need to be built, and what is stopping you from laying the first plank?

About the series: The 3-Minute Leader™ is a weekly micro-essay for emerging and promotable executives.