Sometimes people argue over a concept – a heated intellectual debate, let’s say. I suggest that most of the time this is a fruitless endeavor.
Other times, people argue because they’re trying to enact a specific outcome. I suggest that almost always this is an even more fruitless endeavor.
If you are arguing with another person over a particular course of action, one of three things is true:
- You are the final arbiter of the decision. There is no reason to argue.
- The other person is the final arbiter of the decision. There is no reason to argue. Persuade, maybe, but mostly you should just plan to make the most out of the outcome you don’t want.
- You have to reach a consensus in order to get the outcome you want. There is no reason to argue, because arguing isn’t a great way to persuade people.
You will see a lot more success in your life if you get really good at identifying those three scenarios, rather than trying to get better at arguing.
The Opportunity Machine 