While a fist-pounding speech against tyranny and injustice is as American as the Liberty Bell, so is the Franklin example of influence and coalition building.
Great article for these especially conflicted times! My husband was raised in a Mennonite religious community where persuasion is very common, and he has always used the persuasive tactic with sometimes miraculous results. And even if the other person doesn’t come around, they always part as friends. This does not come easily for me personally, but over the decades, I have gotten a little better and I’m now able to avoid bar fights. 😉
You nailed it when you said, "Learn what logic or experiences brought them to their conclusion. Don’t position yourself as their enemy. Acknowledge their good intentions. Highlight some things you already agree on, then point out the nuance in your perspective. In short, make it easy for them to change their mind and join you."
I've been trying to do much better. Sometimes, if I can't respond nicely, I just respond, "I understand." Screaming and name-calling has never won anyone to your point.
You captured the “why” so well when you said “Since trying this in earnest, I have felt less stressed about politics, burned fewer bridges, and have more friends, all while making more progress than ever to advance the policies and principles that I think are the best for my country.”
It’s a better, happier, more productive way to live!
Great article for these especially conflicted times! My husband was raised in a Mennonite religious community where persuasion is very common, and he has always used the persuasive tactic with sometimes miraculous results. And even if the other person doesn’t come around, they always part as friends. This does not come easily for me personally, but over the decades, I have gotten a little better and I’m now able to avoid bar fights. 😉
You nailed it when you said, "Learn what logic or experiences brought them to their conclusion. Don’t position yourself as their enemy. Acknowledge their good intentions. Highlight some things you already agree on, then point out the nuance in your perspective. In short, make it easy for them to change their mind and join you."
Great piece, I’m with Franklin!
I've been trying to do much better. Sometimes, if I can't respond nicely, I just respond, "I understand." Screaming and name-calling has never won anyone to your point.
Love it, Jefferson, well said!
I’m persuaded! Thank you!
You captured the “why” so well when you said “Since trying this in earnest, I have felt less stressed about politics, burned fewer bridges, and have more friends, all while making more progress than ever to advance the policies and principles that I think are the best for my country.”
It’s a better, happier, more productive way to live!
Love this Jefferson, this country is in need of a Franklin musical, or at least a series that focuses on the art of persuasion in politics
Excellent article. I’m going to read it regularly. If only more people took this wise and positive approach. Thank you.