In any relationship, be it personal or professional, it is so important to be on the same page. This doesn’t mean that we need to agree with everything, nor does it mean that we need to always view everything in the same way. Being on the same page means aligning at a fundamental level of purpose, values, and trust.

The importance of this comes to light when we have serious challenges in a relationship. After many years when we suddenly find a strain and sometimes a breakdown, we realise that even though there is some level of compatibility, there is a fundamental difference and we are not able to withstand the challenges of the relationship. It will serve us well to reflect on what it takes for us to be on the same page.

When we learn to have difficult and uncomfortable conversations, not with a view of contradicting, but with a view of recognising the fundamental paradigm each one carries, it helps us get alignment and get onto the same page.

When we learn to deeply listen rather than assert our own point of view, it allows us the chance to better understand a fundamentally different way of looking at things and gives us a better chance of getting onto the same page.

When we put the relationship before our ego and create the inner space to honestly relook at our own fundamental principles, we bring about inner change. This could either help us shift our position, or may further strengthen the clarity of our conviction, giving us a better chance of getting onto the same page.

And yet, there are some strong relationships in our life where we know we are not on the same page even after our best efforts, but we continue to cherish them. This is only possible when we build a strong bond of unconditional love. Love creates the space for acceptance and complete trust in spite of differences. Before we are quick to turn a new page in our life, let us make sure we have made all efforts to get onto the same page.

Each one of us is unique, has a thought process, and has our own individuality. We may not agree all the time and see everything similarly. This diversity is enriching and shapes society. But when we are held together with the bond of love and trust, we will discover a beautiful aspect of life – even though each one of us may have different stories to write, they can be written on the same page.

(Picture – Coast Redwood tree, Vancouver Botanical Garden)