How important is collaboration and cooperation in your life? Even more crucial than you realize! And that means personally, professionally, and even politically.

“Working together” must start at the very top, with our leaders in Washington, where conflicts, one-upmanship and special interests must be replaced by a movement of collaboration. THAT is what will ultimately enhance the quality of life for every American.

Talk about Washington GRIDLOCK!

In these months following a contentious election and fiscal cliff crisis, more than ever we need our leaders in Congress to work effectively for us. If you think that disagreement on both “sides of the aisle” sparks progress, or boosts our economy, or improves your income and way of life — think again! Cooperation is what we need in the halls of Congress — as well as in our own homes and workplaces.

But, sadly, there’s a gridlock and a negative mindset in Washington that trickles down to you and your family.

We’re leadership consultants and collaboration experts who say that a clear message of “let’s work together now,” and a few simple tools, could help politicians in Washington work together in meaningful ways.

That’s why we’re gifting copies of our award-winning book, COLLABORATION SOUP: A Six-Step Recipe for Co-Creative Meetings and Other Conversations, to members of Congress as a show of support and a way to provide useful tools to our leaders. Instead of spouting criticism to our leaders who devote their lives to service, we’re giving them the information and motivation to reach a common ground among opposing parties and different philosophies. Ultimately, a demonstration of caring and agreement on Capitol Hill will influence your community, your place of business, your marriage.

The American people are invited to be part of sending this message to Congress: we want our leaders to work together, now. During the week of March 11, 2013, we’ll be personally delivering books to the offices of President Obama, Michelle Obama, Vice President Biden, and Jill Biden, along with members of the Senate and the House of Representatives.

Individuals can visit

http://www.indiegogo.com/giftourleaders/x/2083126 to participate and also to track the progress of this effort. This gift from the American people will be a reminder that the problems we face are bigger than party boundaries and more important than special interests.

Our message helps America’s leaders (and citizens) understand:

* The biggest obstacles to collaboration.

* Cooperation can happen when groups have strongly opposing views.

* The importance of diverse ideas to generate effective collaboration.

* It’s difficult for leaders to admit they’re wrong, or that they need a new mindset to serve the American people.

* What it takes to collaborate with others when they’re angry.

* Agreeing, cooperating, and finally accepting another viewpoint will NOT mean you are weak or indecisive! It is actually a sign of wisdom and strength.

More on Why We\’re Doing This

We need our newly-elected leaders to move beyond political differences, party lines, and personality clashes, and reach across the aisle to create bridges and find sensible bipartisan solutions to America’s challenges. We are tired of the gridlock. We need Washington officials to stop acting like kids in opposite corners of the sandbox. We need them to work together more effectively on shared interests for the benefit of the American people, now. We know that delivering this message can make a huge difference for all Americans!

You can be a part of this significant movement, aimed at supporting our elected officials in Washington to work together effectively for the American people. Through your support, you will join us and be a voice heard in DC. Please help us spread the word about our GIFT OUR LEADERS project AND our related film! Tell your friends about the project: Share it with others. Post a link to our Gift Our Leaders website on your Facebook and Twitter accounts. Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Twitter.

Leadership and collaboration specialists Paula Vigneault and Delia Horwitz have co-authored Collaboration Soup: A Six-Step Recipe for Co-Creative Meetings and Other Conversations. 805-541-0367 (CA); paula@giftourleaders.com; www.giftourleaders.com; http://www.indiegogo.com/giftourleaders/x/2083126

Leadership and collaboration specialists Paula Vigneault and Delia Horwitz have co-authored Collaboration Soup: A Six-Step Recipe for Co-Creative Meetings and Other Conversations. 805-541-0367 (CA); paula@giftourleaders.com; http://www.giftourleaders.com; http://www.indiegogo.com/giftourleaders/x/2083126

Author Bio: Leadership and collaboration specialists Paula Vigneault and Delia Horwitz have co-authored Collaboration Soup: A Six-Step Recipe for Co-Creative Meetings and Other Conversations. 805-541-0367 (CA); paula@giftourleaders.com; www.giftourleaders.com; http://www.indiegogo.com/giftourleaders/x/2083126

Category: Politics
Keywords: Collaboration and Cooperation, Fixing Washington Gridlock, Leaders Working Together, Gift Our Leader