Active listening involves more than just waiting for your turn to speak.
This also helps the other person hear exactly what their points sound like.
(Here are some moretips to improve your active listening skills.)
Seek common ground
Begin the conversation by identifying areas of agreement.
This establishes a foundation of shared values or interests, which can help bridge differences later in the discussion.
Use “I” statements
A classic for a reason.
Frame your arguments using “I” statements rather than accusatory “you” statements.
Ask yourself:
What might I not understand about their perspective?
What experiences have shaped their views?
What can I learn from this conversation, even if we continue to disagree?
This mindset shift can transform a potential argument into an opportunity for growth and deeper understanding.
Still, debates become stuck when people focus solely on their positions rather than the underlying interests.
attempt to uncover the core concerns and motivations behind each person’s stance.
This can reveal unexpected areas of alignment and open up new possibilities for resolution.
Even if you don’t ultimately change your position, this attitude fosters a more productive exchange.
Practice empathy
Make a conscious effort to empathize with the other person’s position.
make a run at understand not just their logical arguments, but also their emotional investment in the topic.
Acknowledging their feelings can go a long way in building rapport and fostering a more constructive dialogue.
This might mean finding areas of compromise and agreeing on shared principles, even if specific solutions differ.
It’s not always easy, especially when discussing deeply held beliefs or emotionally charged topics.
