Though our family members may always mean the best for us, it is possible that they may sometimes get on our nerves. Laurie Kramer, professor of applied psychology at Northeastern University shares a few tips on how to tackle an unpleasant conversation.
The first thing to keep in mind is that difference in perspectives are common and it is important to understand what the other person is thinking and why. Try to focus on how you can improve the conversation by bringing in facts or additional information rather than simply branding the other person as ‘misinformed’ or ‘wrong’. Try to disconnect the disagreement on the topic from the personal feelings you have towards that person, Kramer says.
Politics could be a hot topic as well. While both of you may not agree on how the government should execute its policies or which policies are suitable for the society today, try to find a common ground that you both share to help connect with that person more. When conflicts arise in the conversation, remember that they could be constructive and if there was never a hurdle in our way we would never learn.
Kramer tells us that, before shooting a comment at someone in a heated argument, one should sit down and consider why that argument is being made. Is it because of the positive or negative relationship we share or because of the rivalrous nature of it? Whatever the reason, try to detach from your emotions and get an understanding of what it is that you want to make happen. The way to do it will become clear when you do this.
N Malavika Mohan
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