Which matters more in life?

To be right or to be happy?

Even when we find that we are right about an argument, the satisfaction of being right is often short lived. Sometimes it’s easier, with smaller, petty disagreements, to say “Maybe you’re right”. Other times, being the bigger person doesn’t make you the bigger person.

-Tips for assertive communication-

-It’s not all about us- Ask the other person questions shows that you value the other person's opinions and are open to finding a solution without sacrificing your viewpoint.

- Acknowledge your part and make a plan to move forward- Everyone has a part to play in a conflict so figuring out who is to blame is aimless. Be willing to find common ground and peace, even if the other person's reality is different than yours.

-Actually Listen- Give your full attention to what the person is saying, without being ready to respond with your opinion and other judgments.

-Be real about how much you can take- We all have our pressure points so verbalize them! If things are getting too heated, let it be known, table the discussion and make a plan to that topic at another time.

Being bigger didn’t make it better? That's ok!

We don’t always reconcile our differences even after extending grace and humility. If you are able to express your feelings and thoughts in a respectful and meaningful way, then you have achieved the main goal of conflict resolution.

After all, it’s way better to walk away feeling heard and possibly even understood.