Here’s a common scenario: someone raises their voice against you, so you raise your voice in response. Then they raise their voice higher, then you raise your voice higher. And the situation keeps escalating.
Some scientists suggest we do this because of mirror neurons in our brain meant to give us the ability to empathize with others and even mirror what they feel. But, unchecked, we can begin to mirror the anger and antagonism of someone in an argument.
Let me give you a little tip that will save you a lot of heartache and conflict in your life: When other people raise their voice, lower yours—in your marriage, in your parenting, in your friendships, and at work. That’s called strength under control.
The Bible says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1 NIV).
Gentleness defuses conflict. It deescalates anger.
When someone raises their voice in anger, instead of getting defensive, practice gentleness. Let your gentle answer disarm the other person and diffuse the situation.
“Entonces ya no seremos inmaduros como los niños. No seremos arrastrados de un lado a…
Years ago PBS did a series of family histories of famous Americans. They wanted to…
“¡Tú guardarás en perfecta paz a todos los que confían en ti, a todos los…
To reap a great harvest, you must plant generously in faith. My wife Kay and…
“Pero olvida todo eso; no es nada comparado con lo que voy a hacer. Pues…
Admiral Hyman Rickover was the father of the U.S. nuclear Navy. He once interviewed a…