Must You Be Right

You are having a discussion with someone and they say something that you are sure is incorrect or least somewhat off base. Do you feel compelled to set them straight, correct their gross miss-understanding of the facts? No matter the length of explanation nor resistance from this person, you make them understand the facts as you know them.

Does this sound like you or does it just remind you of someone you know. Many of us suffer from this malady. What causes us to behave in this manner? I am not sure, but it could have it’s roots in some insecurities or low self-esteem. We somehow feel that if we let this issues go by, we will be seen in a less favorable light, or even a lack of respect for our knowledge. In fact, it creates just the opposite image for those of us who indulge in this activity. People are put off by our behavior when we appear to be a ‘know it all’. You may also be seen as argumentative when you think you are just trying to clear up a misunderstanding.

Most of us see this behavior in others very easily, but can you see it in yourself just a little bit? If you have the courage, ask someone close to you (who will be honest!), if you ever appear to exhibit this type of behavior.

How do you stop this behavior if it is causing stress in your relationship? Ask yourself how important this discussion will be tomorrow or next week. Unless your keeping score, it most likely will be a non-issue. Choose your battles wisely!

Be a craftsman in speech that thou mayest be strong,
for the strength of one is the tongue,
and speech is mightier than all fighting.
Maxims of Ptahhotep, 3400 B.C.