No two people see things the same way. In fact, when several people viewing the exact same event outline the details they remember, they describe the event differently. Sometimes this leads to argument. In a sporting event, the referee will get booed by thousands of hometown fans who see a play from a different vantage point than he does. The manager or coach might get so hot under the collar that he is ejected or fined for excitedly expressing his version of the play in question.

There are ways to deal with disagreement, but arguing is definitely not the most effective method. If a boss, teacher, or coworker sees things differently than you do, your first reaction might be to defend your opinion. If your position is not accepted, you might start an argument. The heat of the battle might make you lose control and say something you will regret later. You might react defensively to avoid hurt to your ego: "Who does he think he is?" Your response might even be an inability to accept authority or show respect or defer to experience. Your only concern is that you are not to blame - that you are correct.

If you start to react belligerently, hold back. Calm down and take a peek at the other possibilities. Open your ears to another opinion. Self-restraint may not earn you a victory in every battle, but it will help you avoid painful defeat. ()