{ Getting Past your Impasse Alex Boatman, Deborah Johnson, Kyle Mertz, & Amy Vincze

Introduction to Impasses Definitions of Impasse: An obstacle that impedes progress in a mediation Or A situation in which progress is blocked; an insurmountable difficulty; stalemate; deadlock Inflated perceptions of power Anger and verbal hostility Different interpretations of the facts (events) or responsibility Fear of losing face Pushing a personal value Getting stuck Giving up Beliefs and Behaviours that Contribute to an Impasse Take a break/breath Temporarily set impasse issue aside and move on to something that is easier for parties to agree to Describe fears/concerns Brainstorm possible options Review progress Ask in a year where would you like to be/see? Getting Past an Impasse Trial period Offer a suggestions that is almost too outrageous in order to generate possibilities/options that are feasible Other persons shoes Reality checking If all else fails suggest ending the mediation Getting Past an Impasse Continued Incorrect Impasse #1 Correct Impasse #1 Incorrect Impasse #2 Correct Impasse #2 Conclusion