How To Stay Calm When Discussing Politics & Current Events

Politics is a topic that many people are very passionate about, and people can have their own opinions about it. But, unfortunately, this can create conflict, even amongst friends and family members. So, if you’re one to get heated about politics, this article can help show how you can stay more relaxed during these discussions and perhaps even become more open-minded.

See The Other Side’s Point Of View

Politics can be frustrating to talk about for many people, especially if you’re interacting with those who may have completely opposite viewpoints as you.

Instead of getting upset, try to ask questions and see where they are coming from. Look at the situation as one that you possibly can gain from – you might get something of value out of the information they’re telling you.

Also, remember, you have your own biases too, and if you want to change people’s minds one day, it helps to be calm and collected while discussing topics that you feel very strongly about. Lasting change can only happen when people work together on issues, and it all begins by trying not to be so divisive with one another.

Agree To Disagree

Even if you aren’t able to arrive at some middle-ground, it’s okay to simply disagree without the dialogue becoming hostile.

This can take a lot of practice for many people, because as mentioned before, most individuals who are well-versed in politics are biased in one way or another, hence why political parties exist and thrive.

If someone says a talking point that you think is wrong, you can simply try to explain your point of view, and if they don’t act agreeably or even resort to politically-charged name-calling, it’s okay to take a step back or leave the room and keep the rest of your thoughts to yourself, even if the urge to retaliate is strong.

Be Mindful & Use The Relaxation Response

Suppose you’re being engaged in a heated political discussion, and you’re sensing negative feelings and emotions arising. In that case, it’s helpful to know how you can force yourself to calm down and relax when you’re in these situations.

The first thing you should do is practice mindfulness and realize that your thoughts are there for the time being because of the debating, but they will soon pass. Mindfulness is useful for disengaging from any type of conflict, and it’s productive – by recognizing that you’re angry, you can simply accept it, and this will help you be calmer by being more focused and objective.

Learning how to breathe and elicit the relaxation response is also an excellent tool you should have at your disposal. Taking slow deep breaths will gradually force your body to relax and counter the fight-or-flight symptoms that are common during arguments. You can also utilize progressive muscle relaxation to reduce tension in your body, which can happen due to quick and shallow breathing patterns.

Coping With The World Around You

Politics is something many people can feel intensely passionate about, and this can lead to feelings of distress if what’s happening around them does not align with their beliefs.

If you find yourself feeling stressed out because of current events, especially ones related to politics, you can find more resources at BetterHelp like this article that can aid you in becoming better equipped to cope with them.

You don’t have the power to change politics on your own, but you do have control over your feelings and emotions, and you can achieve this through practice and some extra support.

Conclusion

Although you probably won’t be changing the world any time soon, hopefully, by following these tips, you can have more positive and meaningful interactions when talking about politics. Even when talking with people who don’t share your ideology, you can still learn something if you open yourself up to it. However, if the conversation doesn’t appear to be going in a productive direction, feel free to walk away and preserve your mental health.

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