Navigating disagreements becomes more effective with a neutral, problem-solving approach. The key is to depersonalize the conflict using phrases like “it seems.”
Rather than saying, “You’re ignoring my suggestions,” reframe it to, “It seems my suggestions aren’t being fully considered. What might I be missing?”
Employing “it seems” frames the disagreement as an observation rather than an assertion, which minimizes defensiveness and fosters constructive dialogue. It opens the door for the other party to clarify or adjust their perspective, leading to a more balanced discussion.
For instance, saying, “It seems there was a miscommunication about the deadlines. Can we discuss what happened?” shifts the focus from blame to understanding. This approach shows a commitment to grasping the other person’s viewpoint and promotes collaborative problem-solving, especially when the conflict is all about the process.
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