To negotiate means to discuss something with others to reach an agreement that works for everyone involved. When you negotiate, you're trying to find a solution where each person gets at least some of what they want, even if nobody gets everything.

You negotiate more often than you might realize. When you and your sister disagree about which movie to watch, and you finally agree to watch her choice tonight if she'll watch yours tomorrow, you've just negotiated a deal. When your parents say you can stay up later on weekends if you finish your homework on time all week, that's a negotiation too.

In the adult world, people negotiate constantly. Countries negotiate treaties to avoid wars or establish trade. Workers negotiate their salaries with employers. Business owners negotiate contracts with suppliers. Lawyers negotiate settlements to resolve disputes without going to trial.

Good negotiators listen carefully to what others need, explain clearly what they need themselves, and look for creative solutions. The goal isn't to win while the other person loses. It's to find an outcome where everyone walks away feeling reasonably satisfied.

A negotiator is someone skilled at this process. The ability to negotiate well is valuable throughout life, helping you resolve conflicts peacefully and build agreements that last.