How to win an argument first starts with asking yourself, is this something worth arguing over? If your answer is yes, we will present you 12 tips on how to win an argument.
Most of us are familiar with the saying, pick your battles. This is so true in an argument. That is because many people are arguing daily over meaningless and petty things that ultimately don’t matter. Those are not arguments that you want to win. You actually win those arguments by not engaging in them. Believe that!
WHAT IS A WIN IN AN ARGUMENT?
Let’s be clear, not every victory in an argument comes right away. There will be times when the person you are arguing against will not see that you have won, but with time your points will win them over. Winning arguments can, at times, take time. A very long time. The time that it takes for the person to process the information you shared with them and realize that you had their best interest in mind.
Yes, a key to winning an argument is to have the person you are arguing with best interests in mind. You should not be arguing for argument’s sake.
12 TIPS TO WIN AN ARGUMENT
Winning an argument involves effective communication, critical thinking, and persuasive skills. While there’s no guaranteed formula for winning every argument, here are some strategies that can increase your chances of presenting your points effectively:
1) Stay calm and composed: Keep your emotions in check and maintain a respectful tone throughout the argument. Emotional outbursts can hinder effective communication and damage your credibility.
2) Understand the opposing viewpoint: Take the time to listen actively and understand the other person’s perspective. This will allow you to address their concerns more effectively and tailor your arguments accordingly.
3) Gather relevant information: Support your arguments with facts, evidence, and logical reasoning. Research and prepare ahead of time to have a solid understanding of the topic and be ready to provide concrete examples or references to back up your claims.
4) Use logical reasoning: Structure your arguments logically, using premises and conclusions. Point out any fallacies or inconsistencies in your opponent’s arguments, but do so respectfully and with supporting evidence.
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5) Be a good listener: Give the other person an opportunity to speak and express their thoughts. By actively listening, you can identify weak points in their arguments and respond to them more effectively.
6) Avoid personal attacks or insults: Attacking the person instead of their ideas can derail the discussion and harm your chances of winning the argument. Focus on addressing the points raised and providing counter arguments instead.
7) Appeal to emotions (if appropriate): While relying solely on emotions is not recommended, connecting with your audience on an emotional level can enhance the persuasive impact of your arguments. Use personal stories, vivid examples, or appeals to shared values to make your case more compelling.
8) Stay on topic: Keep the discussion focused on the main points and avoid getting sidetracked. This helps maintain clarity and prevents the argument from becoming overly convoluted or confusing.
9) Acknowledge valid points: If the other person raises a valid argument or makes a good point, be willing to acknowledge it. This demonstrates fairness and open-mindedness, and it allows you to maintain credibility while strengthening your own position.
10) Practice active communication: Use clear and concise language, maintain good eye contact, and pay attention to non-verbal cues. Engage in active dialogue, ask clarifying questions, and be open to adjusting your position based on new information.
11) Timing: You have to time it out. Ask yourself, is this the best time to have this argument? Can it wait for later? Maybe it’s a bad time because of the people that are around. The person you are arguing with may not be genuine in their view point based on the crowd that is present. Maybe the argument can be conducted at a different time is something to think about.
12) The place: Think about it. Do you want this argument to take place anywhere? You may very well have your points lined up, but maybe this is not the best place for it. Think about the environment that you’re in. The people that will witness the argument. With that said, the place of the argument is very important.
WHAT DID WE LEARN ABOUT WINNING AN ARGUMENT?
Remember that winning an argument doesn’t necessarily mean proving the other person wrong or making them admit defeat. It’s often about presenting your ideas effectively, fostering understanding, and finding common ground, when possible.
Keep in mind that if you present your ideas accordingly you have sown a seed into the other person’s mind. Yes, it may not bear fruit today or at all, but it may. That in of itself is a win.
CONCLUSION
The ultimate lesson in how to win an argument is to first avoid it, if at all possible. If an argument is to ensue, may it be because there are no other alternative. Read our closing quote below and you’ll understand why arguing is not worth it, most of the time. By far!
As always we like to close with a saying, quote or adage and today’s is: ARGUING WITH A FOOL PROVES THERE ARE TWO.
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Now, go forth and change the game!