Disagreements can be a little tricky. They’re usually surrounded by some degree of negativity, and if you’re not careful, can quickly escalate into full-scale arguments and verbal assaults. Naturally, everyone has his or her differences of opinions. Political/religious disagreements can be some of the most volatile. When dealing with disagreements in general, it’s best to keep in mind that arguing will never make anybody agree with you. What it will do is create negative energy. But if you want to take the heat out of someone’s argument and still maintain peace, this will stop them in their tracks: simply say to them “You may be right.” You’ve still got your own opinion; you’ve just made the choice not to fight about it!
Now, if you really want to knock the socks off of your negative attacker, “Kill them with kindness.” That’s right—make your positive attitude really work for you (and them). Do something completely unexpected and genuinely positive, but just make sure you are sincere in this gesture for full effect. Decide to do something classy and noble for this adversary of yours (who has obviously invested in a substantial measure of emotion and effort towards you). Do something nice such as compliment them on their ingenuity or cleverness; offer to do a favor for them (nothing extravagant); or thank them for their time and interest in the situation. You yourself may end up being the most surprised of all when you see their negativity start to melt and dissolve before your eyes!
Poisonous Relationships
If you spend any kind of significant time with someone who is excessively negative, though maybe not particularly directed toward you, you still need to determine whether it’s best to limit your contact with them or break off the relationship. You certainly can’t tell anyone what or how to think. You can show them the advantages of a positive outlook by demonstrating it in your life, but there’s not much else you can do if they still insist on being filled with negativity.
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