What if the block is actually the bridge?

While preparing for a presentation on “Bridging Across Differences,” I came across the photo  above of a log blocking the flow of a river. It became a powerful visual.

At first glance, the log is an obstacle. It disrupts the current. It slows everything down.

But look again: that same log also creates a bridge—connecting both sides.

Barriers in communication often work the same way. What looks like resistance can become a pathway—if we know how to engage it.

I’ve seen this over and over in my work and in life. When people develop both the will and the skill to communicate across differences—real or perceived—relationships strengthen and better ideas emerge.

I call it the “Ahh…yes” moment. The instant when resistance softens and new perspective becomes possible.

I experienced this myself recently. Someone shared an opinion that I immediately judged negatively. I felt my jaw tighten. I noticed my resistance.

And then—I smiled. A quiet reminder: I’m still learning.

I paused, took a breath, and chose to get centered & curious instead of certain.

That shift changed everything. I learned something new. More importantly, the relationship deepened, and we were able to move forward together.

Now imagine this on an organizational level:

Alex in manufacturing stops complaining and asks out of Lindy, the design engineer, if he'd ever considered a change in a process.  Together, they create a solution neither would have discovered alone—improving flow across the system.

Keri in operations sets aside frustration and finds a better way to communicate with Dan in accounting. They uncover new approaches to funding improvements that had previously been dismissed.

Cheryl, tired of handling upset customers, reaches out to the service team. Instead of escalating blame, she opens a conversation. Trust builds. Communication improves.

Many people believe conflict requires confrontation.
In reality, confrontation is often dysfunctional conflict.

It tends to increase barriers, strain relationships, and shut down engagement.

But what if there were a way to navigate differences that builds connection instead of breaking it? A way that opens the flow of ideas, solves real problems, and honors the people involved?

That’s the work I teach in Leading with Power and Grace through the Spiral Impact® method.

It’s simple—but not easy. It asks us to develop parts of ourselves that often get lost in our speed and reactivity.

And when we do, we gain the ability to lift, or turn, that log…
​…and let connection, creativity, and possibility flow.
​
​Let's Roll!  Karen Valencic