Siblings in business who are experiencing rivalry issues have simply not recognized that they are now adults. They have carried the petty issues of their childhood with them into the business. When you become an adult you have to put away childish things. Sibling rivalries in family business are often rooted in a competition to win dad’s approval. It’s time to recognize that you are in business together fighting for the survival and success of the business. You must spend more time winning each other’s approval than dad’s.
No doubt, sibling conflict in the family business can be destructive, and often is. But healthy competition can be very powerful. It can help siblings learn to share, compromise, and negotiate. It can also lead to higher levels of individual and business performance. Turning sibling rivalry into sibling synergy requires an understanding of your common foundation and development of a common vision.
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