How to Talk Politics at Holiday Gatherings

To maintain a friendly atmosphere at holiday gatherings, it is often advised that you should refrain from discussing politics or religion. These sticky topics can turn a lovely party into a heated debate. But during election years, the latest polls are in the news every day, and it can be a difficult subject to avoid. Learn ways to engage in political discussions without stirring up trouble.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Leave your emotions at home. Prepare for talk about politics by calming yourself before you go to the party. Tell yourself that it doesn't matter what other people think and you know what you believe. This pep talk will keep you from becoming overexcited and escalating the talk into a fight.
2. Repeat back to people what they have said. This technique will show them that you are at least listening to their side. It is a common practice in therapy and works well in social conversations as well.
3. Carry your own polls. For every poll swinging one way, another poll will support the opposite view. Be prepared to counterattack in a debate where the discussion relies on polls.
4. Stay current on the news. When you can show that you've intelligently followed the news and the various polls, you can quote from other sources. You want to appear as if you are simply spouting a bunch of opinions.
5. Let others complete their thoughts without interrupting. Sometimes it is just plain rudeness that offends people, rather than the opposing views on politics that you are expressing.
6. Claim your views as your own by talking about your own insights rather than attacking others' opinions. You may even be more persuasive if you are not perceived as attacking others.

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