Breaking through Gridlock
The Power of Conversation in a Polarized World
Think about the last time you tried to talk with someone about political, social, or environmental issues who didn't already agree with you. How well did it go?

These conversations are vital, but too often they get stuck, or we avoid them entirely. We retreat to our camps, frustrated that we can't move our cause forward. What if, in these difficult conversations, we could stay true to ourselves while enriching relationships and creating powerful pathways forward? What if our divergent values provided healthy fuel for dialogue and innovation instead of gridlock and polarization?

Jason Jay and Gabriel Grant show readers that when we carefully examine the moments in which conversations get stuck, we discover some hidden baggage we all carry. We hold assumptions and judgments about the “other side” that block communication. We treasure the comfort of being among allies, even at the expense of being effective. The authors help us acknowledge our inner contradictions to free us up where we otherwise get stuck so we can powerfully share with anyone, anywhere, what really matters and together find solutions that work for all.

Breaking through Gridlock invites us into a spirit of serious play, laughing at ourselves while moving from self-reflection to action. Through a series of six practical steps with proven exercises and rich examples, this interactive book walks readers through a process of transforming paralysis and effecting positive change in their families, organizations, communities, or movements.