5 keys that will help you win any argument

When we are in the middle of an argument, we need to take care of our words and choose them carefully so as not to make the situation worse and be able to come to an agreement with the other party.

An argument is characterized by a dialogue where there are disagreements, differences of opinion, and a clear need to impose a truth over the other person’s arguments.

While no one has ever taught us how to discuss in a healthy way with the goal of reaching mutual agreement, there are a number of key factors that can help you.

What needs to be understood, first of all, is that the main enemies of a constructive and respectful discussion are negative emotions.

A disagreement in the couple, a misunderstanding with a work colleague or with a boss often causes a feeling of discomfort, nervousness, frustration or even anger.

Controlling these emotions will allow us to achieve that mental calm that makes us much more effective when it comes to arguing and coming out triumphant from any discussion.

We invite you to discover 5 easy keys to get there.

Do not attack: arguing is also listening and taking into account the other

An argument is not won by attacking. It is won with good arguments and with the charisma of someone who feels confident with himself to influence the other person by guiding them towards a good agreement.

• It is necessary to understand, first of all, that attacks, contempt, yelling and accusations are useless in an argument.
  All the more so if these behaviors intensify until reaching a point of no return. They are unnecessary.
• Even if this type of intense dialogue starts with a disagreement or something that bothers us or hurts us, it’s important not to turn it into something personal.
• Try to keep a cool head, a warm heart, and a firm voice.

Never stop caring about the person in front of you. If negative emotions control you, you will stop listening, and if you don’t listen, you will not offer logical or valid arguments.

2. In an argument, instead of a “why”, use a “how”

It might sound silly, but when we are in the middle of an argument there are certain words that can help us “move” the other person by “forcing” them to be aware of something deeper.

Let’s take an example. Imagine that you are in the middle of an argument with your spouse and you say the following to them:

• Why do you leave me out when you make a decision? Why did you do this without telling me?

It is very likely that, faced with this type of question, the other person will give standard answers that are already ready.

However, imagine what might happen if you told her the following:

• How do you think I feel when you act without considering me?

3. Don’t think about “being right”, think about finding a common agreement

The purpose of a discussion is not to force our truth into the other person’s mind. What we are looking for is the following:

• Let the other person become aware of our point of view.
• We do not want to make the situation worse.
• That the two people come out of the discussion strengthened after having reached an agreement.

4. Control the tone of your voice, avoid language tics

Phrases like “You don’t understand me”, “You don’t know what I mean” or even starting sentences with “No” involves putting up a wall in the fluidity of the dialogue.

And a negative emotion is already imposed in the conversation.

• Speak assertively, be firm but empathetic towards the other person.
• Instead of starting sentences with the word “no”, it’s important to say “I know what you want to tell me and I understand you.”
• It is important that your tone is relaxed, that you do not lose your composure, and that you are always close and kind.
• While you should not neglect the emotional aspect at any time, it is also recommended to use logic.
• Often times the other person comes up with an argument that lacks logic. Be careful to detect it and show it its mistake.

5. Argue and bring ideas that awaken the empathy of the other