Nobody likes to be wrong. We’re all pretty attached to being right.  Worse, sometimes we confuse being “wrong” as a reflection of our essence instead of just another opinion on an issue. We may feel we have to justify our rightness with explanations because we believe if someone is right about an issue, the other must be wrong.✨

When we believe we are right, we tend to over-explain; believing that “if only we could just be more clear” (by repeating our perspective in a variety of different ways) the other person will wake up and understand. We may also think that they’re just not listening, so we might even raise our voices. ✨

The fact is: People have different opinions and perspectives on all kinds of issues big and small. ✨

Often, when confronted with another’s opinion, instead of accepting this or trying to understand where our differences lie, we flip into fight for survival mode. The listening on all sides, that is so essential to progress in situations & relationships, ceases.✨

So, the next time you feel threatened during a conversation — remember, your survival is likely not at risk. It is the opinion you are holding onto for dear life  that may be perilously close to being exposed, questioned or substantiated. That’s OK. Not only will you survive, healthy, respectful discussion might even improve your communication skills to a whole new level. ✨

While some situations are absolutely black and white, right or wrong, we grow when we’re willing to explore the grays.

Silver Disobedience® philosophy believes all healthy relationships begin with self-awareness. I’m @DianGriesel aka @SilverDisobedience ✨ I am a Perception Analyst and I wrote The Silver Disobedience Playbook. Here, I share my Daily Meditations for other Ageless, Passionate & Curious People.  More info in my bio, my websites and at Wilhelmina New York.