Agreements over assumptions

We all get frustrated when things don't go the way we expect. Pre-emptively transform expectations into explicit agreements to save a world of pain.

There is no "social contract"

Honour the contracts you actually agreed to. You owe the rest nothing.
Understand the problem you're solving

To avoid confusion and dissatisfaction, design solutions around the desired outcome.
Avoid middle ground

Middle ground is the place where nothing happens, nobody wins, and noone is happy.
Stop making so much noise and listen

Unless you are absolutely certain that you have all the context, keep quiet and listen carefully.
Avoid confusion by creating agreements

Regret, distrust, and failure in relationships and projects stem from miscommunication and misaligned expectations.