On Debating with Others

Debates can be passionate and intense. Often, when I observe myself during one, I feel defensive and my shoulders stiff. The ego begins to take over and the conversation turns from a debate to an argument. It becomes a contest of proving I’m right and the other person wrong. The worst debates happen when both parties are arguing with their egos, that’s a game that no one wins.

When I feel this happening, I’ll accept the emotion then let go. By opening myself up, I relinquish my ego. Then, I’ll be in a state to have a healthy debate.

On the other hand, I’ll ask myself, “Is this person trying to be right or seeking the truth?” Many debates end up being the former. Those are worth spending time on. Productive debates happen when egos are set aside and both parties are seeking the truth.