Tips For Productive Arguments

Using what you know and trying to remain focused is essential. Avoid arguments with friends.

Discussing politics is not allowed here. If you must fight, try to play fair.

Opinions can be polarizing, and arguments between friends are tough to avoid. What can make an argument more difficult is trying to cover all of the angles when discussing the same topic with different people.

Focusing on being fair will be difficult, but if you aren't being fair yourself, you can't expect to be fair to someone else.

As you discuss your opinions, try to do a thorough amount of research to justify your thoughts. Pretending to know everything about a topic is an easy trap to fall into.

You can always go back and add to the conversation, so try not to leave your thoughts out.

Admittedly, there are always going to be situations in which facts don't matter. For example, it is still better to know the fact that you know than to know nothing.

However, one of the biggest mistakes people can make is trying to argue with someone over a subject where they are wrong.

Make your arguments have a point, and be sure to present the point very well. It is easy to be subtle, but if you are not being obvious, your opponent may think you have nothing else to say.

Don't be afraid to speak your mind. If you think it makes sense, do it. If not, don't.

Opinions on the internet

Opinions on the internet can be polarizing as well, but most internet arguments are resolved in a matter of minutes.

A popular argument is whether gender equality is important.

For example, when a person says that women should be feminists, a person will argue that equality doesn't matter.

Arguments for equality can be long and complicated, and often a simple way of responding to someone that doesn't agree with you is to refute their points.

However, this comes off as being patronizing.

Focus on being positive, even if your opponent isn't

When arguing with an internet troll, try to call them out on their viewpoints.

A good rebuttal is about explaining why their point of view isn't the best. However, don't go overboard.

A sarcastic comment can backfire, and this is easy to do.

Once you feel like you have a good handle on the subject at hand, try to change the topic.

For example, if you've had an argument on immigration, try to turn the topic to gun control. Similarly, if you've had an argument about business ethics, try to change the topic to yoga.

Some people will never be swayed by reason. Instead, you may have to try to change their viewpoints through the force of personality.

For example, if you believe you are right about something, try to push it on someone. Try to convince your opponent, and if this fails, argue for yourself.

Focus on everyone

Your greatest weapon is what you leave unsaid. You want your opponent to hear you and say something else, but know that it will take a lot of effort.

If you make your points very clear, people will be less likely to disagree with you.

Keep arguing with others until you convince them that you're right. Eventually, they will listen to you.

Opinions aren't as powerful as facts, but there are some people that find it hard to change their minds.

Follow these tips and you'll have an easier time changing someone's opinion.

Arguments can be helpful to have even if they are not as pleasant as they could be

They can help you understand others better. A productive argument also will help you understand yourself better, too.

When someone is disagreeing with you, they are more inclined to be careful with how they present their point.

You are also more inclined to respect someone who is willing to listen and be flexible with their point of view.

Arguments are also a tool to assess where you stand in relation to someone else. It will help you understand their needs and how they want to be respected.

Tell the truth

It is best to express the truth.

When you are able to give what is real, it can help you focus on solving the problem instead of proving a point.

It will also help you get through the argument and avoid any knee-jerk reactions.

Use mindfulness

Sometimes it is better to be in the present.

Appreciating the moment is a great way to reduce stress and depression.

If you are worried about the argument, focus on the present moment and use mindfulness to clear your mind.

Perspective

It is important to remember that other people have other views than you.

Everyone has their own view. You need to understand what other people are going through.

The perspective of someone who is opposed to your argument is much different from yours.

Apologize

It is very important to apologize. Not just for the sake of saying you are sorry but because you are honest and transparent.

If you apologize and don’t actually stop the behavior, your apology becomes meaningless.

Take responsibility

It is easier to take responsibility when you have actually done something wrong.

When you are able to admit the wrongdoing, your listener will be much more open to hearing you out.

The responsibility to do something good for your friend and the willingness to change are very powerful.