n this Compass Check, we tackle heated debates that stall progress—and replace them with a simple habit: Steeled by Respect. When the mission is shared but the maps differ, it’s easy to slip into straw-man jabs and point-scoring. Instead, try this three-beat rhythm you can use anywhere: Best Case → Shared Aim → Make the Call. You’ll hear an easy, universal example (rethinking the weekly status meeting) with straw men from both sides—and then the “steel” version that lowers the temperature, clarifies intent, and leads to a crisp decision or quick test. Whether you lead a product team, a nonprofit committee, or a city task force, this move helps teams feel heard and move forward together.