Arguments are never fun, but they can be even more frustrating when dealing with a stubborn person.
It can feel like you're talking to a wall when you're trying to explain your position to a stubborn person. They just don't seem to be listening.
For stressed emotional eaters, food addicts, and people trying to lose weight interacting with stubborn people can cause food cravings and food binges. This week's newsletter has six tips to help you get through an argument with a stubborn person. You can finally get your point across and resolve the conflict by following these simple rules.
1. Don't be confrontational from the start
If you come out swinging, the other person will put up their defenses, and it will be even harder to get them to see your point of view. Instead, try to start the conversation in a friendly way. Make small talk before getting into the meat of the argument.
2. Agree with them on some points to gain their trust
If you can find some common ground, it will be easier to get them to see your side. Once they realize that you're not just trying to disagree with them for the sake of it, they may be more open to hearing what you have to say.
3. Use logic and reason to make your case
One word of advice here on using logic. Use logic based on how they reason. How? Listen to the way the stubborn person speaks. If the stubborn person mentions how much they "feel" about a point, then present your case from that perspective.
For example, you could state, "you said you felt strongly about taking this approach. I feel we should take a different approach for the following reasons..."
4. Appeal to their emotions sparingly
In some cases, you may need to appeal to the other person's emotions to get them to see your point of view. However, be careful with this approach. If you use it too much, they'll tune you out, and you'll lose all credibility.
If you can find a way to relate your argument to something that the other person cares about, you'll be more likely to get them to see things your way. Use concrete examples to make your point and help the other person understand why you're right.
5. Don't get emotional yourself
If you find yourself getting emotional during the argument, take a step back and try to calm down. Getting angry or upset will only make the other person dig their heels in more. They're likely to see you as irrational and unreasonable if you lose your cool, which will make it even harder to win them over.
6. Be willing to compromise
In some cases, the best way to win an argument with a stubborn person is to be ready to meet them halfway. If you can find a solution that satisfies both of you, it's worth considering. Remember, the goal is to resolve the conflict, not to prove that you're right.
Wrapping up
If you've ever been in an argument with a stubborn person, you know that it can be frustrating - especially if they're right. But don't give up! There are ways to get through to them. Start by not being confrontational from the start and agreeing with them on some points. Then use logic and reason to make your case. Appeal to their emotions sparingly, and don't get emotional yourself. Be willing to compromise, and you'll eventually reach a resolution. Need help getting started? Schedule a free Get To Know You Session today! We'd love to hear from you and help boost your productivity!
How have you navigated stubborn people? Comment below!
With much love,
Dr. Kirsten Grant
