Agree to do this exercise on a time limit to this exercise. Do not go on with the next step until you have successfully completed the current one.

Define the issue until both agree and can state it to one another congruently. If you cannot agree on the definition of the issue, keep talking until you do.

Brainstorm
Name possible solutions without commenting about them.
Get creative.
Anything goes at this point.
If you cannot brainstorm, go back to defining the issue.

Veto
Either can veto an offered solution. No discussion.
If you run out of suggestions, start brainstorming again.
Use what solutions are left to guide you in your proposal.

Proposal
Can be anything. Use un-vetoed brainstorm suggestions to start.
Must have a win-win to it. No 'lets make a deal' I win you lose today you win I lose tomorrow.
Have only what you want in it.
No discussion, question asking, time-outs.

Counterproposal
No longer any 'no's in this relationship.
Accept the proposal or make a counterproposal.
Keep what parts of the proposal were a win for you.
Add what is missing, instead of asking for other to fill in those parts.
Delete what is not ok.
No discussion, explanation or justification. No question asking, time-outs.

Proposal
Cannot repeat a previous one.
Make it fun. Be creative.
No discussion, explanation or justification. No question asking, time-outs.

Counterproposal
Cannot repeat a previous one.
No discussion, explanation or justification. No question asking, time-outs.

Until agreement occurs
Each states the agreement to the other until there is no dispute.
If you cannot agree, go back to proposing and counterproposing.

Keep the agreement
Unless you do this exercise again and come to a new agreement first.

Evaluation
Set an agreed interval of time before evaluation. Honor the agreement.
Set a method of evaluation. How will you both know if this process was a success?

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