Communication that includes disagreement can be uncomfortable. When people talk about differences, it can trigger emotional reactions.

Defensiveness, fear, anger, outrage, disgust, ridicule, and sadness generally develop. Often reactions to disagreements are hidden or denied; sometimes, they are obvious and intense. Still, they play a leading role in how people interpret and respond.

The above emotions are not innately bad, wrong, rude, or childish. On the contrary, they can often add helpful context to a discussion, making the human aspect impossible to ignore. However, once they serve their purpose of drawing attention to the issue, they can overwhelm and derail communication that leads to solutions, understanding, compromise, and empathy. If you cling to the anger, distrust, and evading silence, people become inflexible, divided, and stop listening. When there is no listening, there is no growth. Progress does not stop when we stop talking. Progress stops when we stop listening.

It’s vital to interact with those who think differently than you do. In private or public, show respect for their right to hold their own views, especially when you disagree. Listening to what they have to say (no matter how wrong, offensive, or dangerous you find it) enhances your perspective.

We are all here on this planet in the context of each other. If we were all the same, humanity would offer little appeal to anyone. Embracing and studying the rich context of our differences does not suggest weakness or defeat. Nor does it imply you surrender your intellectual or ethical integrity. It just means that you gain a broader, more profound insight into where your own views fit. That, in turn, helps you navigate this planet more effectively.

Realizing that your beliefs aren’t the only valid or best opinions out there can be puzzling, humbling, and awkward. But, on the other hand, it also can be stimulating and even enjoyable. If you expose yourself to potentially difficult conversations, you will always learn from them.

Disagreements are good things; they foster discussions that can be valuable and constructive, even if they aren’t always comfortable.

#artcoombs, #arthurfcoombs, #listen, #differences, #disagreements