How to Prevent Arguments

Depending upon which self-help book we have just finished reading, our approach to conflict may be entirely different. If it happens to be a book that promotes self actualization, then we are liable to be aggressive and "in-your-face." In truth, conflict may be the last thing we need. There are ways of avoiding arguments without "Rolling over and showing our bellies."

Instructions

• 1

  Realize that your reaction to a situation is determined by your emotions and the reality of the situation.

• 2

  Ask yourself if you are you overreacting because you're tired or stressed.

• 3

  Make sure that your anger is not being displaced from something you are feeling towards someone or something else.

• 4

  Check the same factors for the person with whom you are arguing.

• 5

  Adopt the attitude that when someone disagrees with you, she is actually presenting you with new possibilities. Keep an open mind.

• 6

  Control your temper by being aware that it may make you feel "righteous" but in the long term it typically weakens your position. Listen. Sometimes simply listening will completely diffuse a situation.

• 7

  Use diplomatic language. "I believe" or "I could be wrong, but..." couch whatever you have to say in a fashion much less likely to heat up circumstances.