How to Diffuse and Argument

Everyone argues, its the outcome of the argument that makes the difference on whether there will continue to be a relationship or not. How do you diffuse an argument? Here is how!

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• to be humble
• consideration for the other person

1. You can not get over an argument if you are still upset. Take some time to your self and ask the other person to do the same.

2. Once you feel calm and are able to think clearly think about what it is that you were arguing about, what points you want to get across, how that person hurt you or upset you and how can you express yourself without attacking the other person or coming across as judgmental or offensive.

3. Give the other person a chance to explain themselves as well, without interrupting. Allow them to go first and ask for the same respect in return.

4. If one of you starts to get upset again STOP talking and take another break until you are ready to continue. If you are the one who lit the spark then try to reword what you said so that you do not offend the person again. If they are the one who upset you then explain that it was offensive and ask that they find another way of putting it.

5. Find common ground. You may not agree with each others opinions but agree to disagree and move on.

6. Forgive and forget. Learn from this experience and don't make the same mistake twice.

[Sounique]

on 12/7/2008 Good advice!