How to Disagree

1. General. You should have read ‘How to Listen’, in the previous Issue. We
all disagree; both during the conversation and in writing. Some disagree far too
frequently than others; and far too vehemently. The area of focus here, in this
brief write-up would be the verbal communication. Disagreements of some are
hardly noticeable. Rather people wait to listen for another opinion, another option and a better
solution or way out, or a valuable addition. Such friends are most sought out. They make a
wonderful company. Let us study ‘How to Disagree’.
■ See what is at stake? What is the issue or the subject matter? Is it
of any consequences? Should you be disagreeing or appreciating
or merely be a good listener.
■ Do not disagree for the sake of disagreeing. Are you doing it
since none disagreed, or all others disagreed? Are do you hate the
person!
■ If it is must to disagree, do it politely and gently. Opening sentences
could be, “Do you seek my views…? Or “If you insist, may I say...”
or “I may be wrong, but...” or “You are right, but I beg to…”
■ Suggest ‘possibility’ rather ….another probability… or another angle
to look at, or measure the….
■ Distinguish between diffrent opinions and the factual mistakes. One
may disagree with an opinion, but not the fact.
■ Consider the context before disagreeing. It could be the beginning of a
hilarious or comic story or narration.
■ One could easily start with a question to be clear of the context or the
mind set to the one speaking.
■ You may need to point out only selective perception; or the kind of specifi experience of
someone, who is so much of your thoughts. Why disagree in toto, one may disagree the last
fie percent or the middle part or just the opening statement.
2. Conclusion. This succinct on one of the signifiant part of
communication skills can be phrased as guidelines, or a set of
principles. However, an in-depth understanding of ‘How to
Disagree’ and its application would be more of an art rather than
theory. Go ahead and give a golden touch to your communication
skills. Your interpersonal relations may shine better than gold
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