“I’m going to be okay. " “This isn’t worth getting upset over. ” “Their opinion is not important. "
Taking a moment to cool down will help you decide whether or not engaging them is really that important or necessary. You may decide that it’s not worth it!
For example, if you’re fighting with a coworker who has an important deadline coming up, think about how the stress of their situation might be affecting their behavior. If your significant other is mad because you’re going out with friends, consider why they’re angry instead of calling them irrational. They may feel abandoned.
If someone is visibly upset, they may lash out verbally or physically if you try to walk away. You may want to hear them out before you try to leave.
For example, you could say “I love you and don’t want us to get angry at each other like this. Let’s not fight right now. ”
For example, you could say to a stranger you got in a fight with “I’m so sorry. That was my fault and I didn’t mean for this to turn into a fight. ”
For example, you could say to your friend that you’re fighting with “We’re not getting anywhere right now. Want to cool off and talk about this later?” If your friend is still persistent, explain that you want to resolve this flight, but you can’t do it when you’re not thinking clearly. This way, they won’t feel attacked.
Don’t use sarcasm or make a joke at the other person’s expense. This will make them feel that you’re not taking their feelings seriously. If you’re fighting with a friend or your significant other, try an inside joke that you can both laugh about. [7] X Research source
Confidence is key. If you appear insecure, the person may try instigating a fight with you. Keep your back straight, your shoulders pulled back, and your head high.
If you’re fighting with your significant other, you could say “I’m going to go for a walk,” or “I don’t want to fight right now. I’m going to go in the other room. ” If you’re fighting with someone you don’t know, tell them “I have to go now, have a nice day,” and leave. If you’re fighting with a friend or coworker, be straightforward with them. Say “I’m going to go. Let’s talk about this later. ”
If at anytime you feel like you’re in physical danger, call the police. Be careful if you’re going to your car. Make sure that it’s not in a secluded area and that you have a clear escape route. If possible, make sure that you are in a public area. This way, if the fight escalates, there may be others who can help you.
If you’re in a public place like a store or a park, look around for people who could help you. Attract their attention by being loud and calling out for help. If you’re at a bar or club and someone is trying to fight you, get the bartender’s attention or ask a friend to go find the security guard.
Learning from a fight can help prevent another one in the future. For example, if the fight was with your significant other, take the time to think about what underlying issues in your relationship caused the fight in the first place.
