Disagreements happen to everyone, there is no age limit on disagreements. Disagreements are uncomfortable and usually escalate into something negative when individuals involved do not know how to express themselves appropriately. When people do not know how to appropriately express themselves, the animal instinct takes over; punches are thrown and angry words are exchanged. Disagreeing appropriately means that individuals can disagree without becoming angry. People think differently and have different viewpoints, so disagreements are inevitable. However, disagreements do not have to be taken personally. There are four key steps to ensuring appropriate disagreements:
- Look at the other person.
- Use a calm-toned voice.
- Tell the other person why you feel differently (remember step #2).
- Listen to the other person, without interrupting.
Remember, everyone is a unique individual with different thoughts and ideas as a result of different experiences. These experiences become the lenses by which people see the world. So, when a disagreement arises, keep in mind that the other person has different experiences than you.