Arguments Aren't Meant To Be Won.

I have never been a fan of engaging in arguments; it's not just my style of communication. Instead of going hot while trying to prove a point, I prefer to just share my knowledge and it's up to you to believe me or see things from my own perspectives. While I don't see any reason to convince you to believe me, I am still open to learning if you present your arguments in a constructive way, which a lot of people find difficult to do because, at a point during the conversation, they let their emotions get the best of them.

Arguing is actually not a bad thing, but some people just misunderstand it. They believe it has to be aggressive all because it's called an argument whereas it is just a means of communication that involves exchanging ideas and challenging perspectives but people digress from the positive impact to becoming abusive and aggressive while proving a point.

Recently, I was in a bus when some men started talking about politics. Everyone backed out of the conversation at a time except two men, one thinks Tinubu’s government is promising while the other insisted Nigeria has hit a 20 years setback since Tinubu became the president. These two men didn't stop arguing and their tone went from a mere conversation to yelling at each other.

At one point, the man opposing the Tinubu regime said only people who have strong covenant with poverty will love how things are going in the country while the other man replied that only a retard will think that way and the argument went from politics to cursing each other’s family.

Honestly, I learned a few historical events which I was checking online while they were talking but seeing them end up cursing themselves ruined the interest I had in their conversation earlier.

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Growing up Oshodi and living in a place like Ikorodu, where arguments can escalate quickly, has shown me how emotions can turn discussions into conflicts. I have seen a mere argument turning in a street fight that led to bloodshed. It's one of the reasons I don't watch football in viewing center and probably that might have influenced my decision to always keep my discussion brief during an argument- I just watch, listen and learn even though my points or beliefs about somethings can't be uttered.

Despite keeping my distance away from arguing with people, I sometimes find myself at the center of it which isn't a problem except it's a discussion that irritates me i.e comparing Lionel Messi to Ronaldo.

When my opinion or knowledge about a topic is requested, I try not to sound like I am taking sides, I first point out the good point in both parties arguments before pouring out my ideas which might contradicts theirs or support just one of the persons argument.

My goal during an argument is not to win but educate others while learning too. I give my contribution, respond to constructive criticism and just seal my mouth.
This simple approach has helped me stay calm and build better understanding with people, even when we disagree on issues.

I once asked a guy at the football field if he can't share is idea without doing it violently because whenever any discussion comes up, he wants to act like he has an idea and end up spitting nonsense confidently and aggressively. I advised him to start watching programs like journalist hangout and your views to see how people present their views, thought and knowledge on issues without crossing boundaries or disrespecting each other.

Looking back, I have never had any regretful moment as a result of arguing because I don't become confrontational or try to impose what I think is right on people. I share my thoughts and ideas in polite ways, learn from your knowledge and that's all.

No man is an island of knowledge so we can't know it all, we can't be always right and most importantly, we must be open to learning.

_{All Image Are Mine.}