The outcome of a dispute is most often determined by the impartiality of one of the participants. A cool head allows you to choose the best arguments, as well as make the most convincing arguments. However, it is not easy to remain cool in an argument.
To stay cool, you need to avoid giving in to your emotions. In a dispute, it is very difficult to do this, especially if the interlocutor does not even try to listen to you. It is incredibly easy to lose your temper in this situation: you just have to go a little on the lead of your emotions. To avoid this, try to maintain self-control. Carefully analyze your thoughts, be ironic about any comments and attacks, do not be afraid to repeat what has been said.
Breathe right
Self-control is like a muscle. The more actively it is involved, the weaker it becomes over time. Therefore, if at the beginning of the dispute you could adequately respond to your opponent, then towards the end there is a strong desire to break loose and shout. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for self-control. It is on her activity that composure largely depends.
The best way to distract yourself from unnecessary emotions and regain control is with breathing. A fast rhythm helps to activate muscle activity, a slow one - brain activity. Therefore, if you feel that you are beginning to get annoyed and follow the lead of the other party to the argument, then just slow down your breathing. Take a few deep breaths in and out. Try to keep the breathing cycle longer each time.
Count
Another way to quickly regain self-control and an open mind about an argument is to count. This mechanism does not yet have a precise scientific interpretation, but it is commonly believed that counting helps the brain to structure its activities. If your head is a mess or complete chaos, then counting is the best solution.
In the beginning, just count to ten. You can combine this technique with breathing. For example, inhale for 3-4 counts, and then exhale for another 5-6. This will allow you to be distracted for a short time and recover. Do not get too distracted by the count, otherwise you can lose the essence of the conversation.
Speak slowly
This will allow you to think about the words of the interlocutor longer, and you will also be able to find much stronger arguments. In no case should you rush. Sometimes a thoughtless phrase can cost you dear. It is better to spend an extra few seconds thinking about your answer than immediately blurting out the prepared phrase.
Keeping a cool head during an argument will also help you maintain a clear sense of your position. If you simply refute the interlocutor, you will hardly be able to control emotions. Formulate a specific position and stick to it. This is how you will not only be able to hold out with dignity in verbal polemics, but you will also have a better chance of winning.
