How to Stop a Fight

Small squabbles can quickly escalate into heated arguments if the parties involved refuse to compromise or call a truce. When pride interferes with common sense and a fight ensues, take some time to collect your thoughts in order to dissipate the anger and resolve the conflict.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Remind yourself that winning an intense argument rarely makes you feel victorious. Instead, you're likely to be anxious and embarrassed that you lost your cool.
2. Turn your adversary's accusation into a question. If a co-worker accuses you of taking too much time in the restroom, ask her what bothers her about the time you spend there. Chances are, there is an underlying reason, such as she feels she is doing your work while you are hiding in the restroom. By asking questions, you can determine the real cause of the animosity.
3. Mention small things that irritate you before they become a big problem. Some people let the annoying actions of others pass until they build up inside, eventually resulting in an over-reaction. By mentioning a small irritant before it develops into a full-fledged rant, you can resolve the issue before a fight occurs.
4. Remove yourself from the immediate area if the fight threatens to get out of control. Excuse yourself by telling the other person that you need a minute to get a drink or use the restroom and that you'll be right back to continue the conversation. Use the break to gather your thoughts and determine your objectives.
5. Steer clear of an individual if you know a fight will ensue. If there's no chance for a friendly outcome or compromise, just avoid the situation altogether. Sometimes emotions are running too high to solve a problem and it's better to wait until both of you can address it without anger.
6. Resolve the situation by telling the other person, "Hey, let's fight about it." When you admit aloud that the squabble could escalate into a fight, it dissipates anger and puts the situation into the proper perspective. It might even bring a smile to your adversary's face.
7. Contact the authorities if another person makes threats of physical violence against you. While the police are unlikely to arrest him or her, they are obliged to speak with the person and sometimes that's all it takes to make them realize that threatening you is not a wise decision.