(Video: How to Win Any Argument)
Arguments are inevitable. They’re unpleasant and most would like to avoid them, if possible. Yet, at times argument are unavoidable but necessary and winning is the only way out.
How do you handle an argument and come out a winner?
1.) Be cool, calm and collected. Don’t lose your temper while making your point. Those who do are losers from the start.
2.) Do not attack the person personally (e.g., your opponent’s appearance, lifestyle choices or even his personal problems). Always attack the reasoning of his argument. Giving respect to your opponent is the first step to being a champion.
3.) Be gracious with each attack.
4.) Offer each statement in a positive manner. The use of negation can diminish the credibility of your points, no matter how valid they are.
5.) Use the power of logic and use the irrefutable facts as evidence of your arguments. There is no way out of a solid, practical proof.
6.) Do not get distracted by snide remarks and witty punch-liners, or try taunting the opponent. Stick to the subject at hand to show that you are the more level-headed individual.
7.) Always present a genuine smile to your opponent. This will confuse them and make you look charismatic but still a force to reckon with. Most men mistake the pleasant smile as a sign of limitation but it is, actually, the gentleman’s secret ace.
8.) Staying in control is important. Ask the right questions to challenge the point of the opponent. Observe your challenger carefully to identify the flaws and weak points of his argument.
9.) After a careful observation and identification of weaknesses, use their own Achilles’ heel against them. You can play ignorance by asking for clarifications on a crumbling logic.
10.) Appeal to his higher values, including his emotions. Do not toy with it but plead to it. Make him see how your point affects his well-being. This could turn their own argument against them and get them on your side for a swift victory.
11.) Sometimes, some winners claim one way to sure success. It is being silent after building a strong, powerful argument and letting the opponent talk. Talking meant blustering and fumbling their way through a feeble reasoning, unless your opponent makes a stronger point.
12.) Do not be condescending. Being smug and haughty will only make you look defensive.
13.) If being open-minded is difficult to achieve, at least pretend to be and that will follow suit..
14.) Look for a way to negotiate with the opponent. Trying for a win-win situation is one of the marks of a true gentleman or lady victor.
15.) Settle the argument by pointing out the significance of your reasoning in a sensible action. There is nothing more satisfying than showing your opponent the hard, no-nonsense and undeniable proof.
16.) If the opponent is honest and has valid, logical points that defeats one’s reasoning, be a gentleman and prepare to concede. The real winners are those who side with the truth, regardless of its speaker.
Follow these rules and you can be sure to win any argument.