Have you ever been in a situation where you started off talking about one thing and the person you are talking to twisted it around and an argument starts?

Well, there is the easy, empowering solution to effortlessly defend yourself in that situation with subtlety.

I recently saw a YouTube video interview between Dr. Jordan Peterson and Cathy Newman.

Jordon Peterson is a clinical psychologist, professor, public lecturer, business consultant, and vice president at a neuropsychological assessment company. You can see his LinkedIn account here >> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanbpeterson/

Cathy Newman is an English journalist and presenter of Channel 4 News. As an investigations editor, you can correctly assume she has pointed questions.

With millions of videos on YouTube, this one is a true gem. You can see Charlie Houpert narrate the video. He shows you the clues and explains what is happening in the conversational exchange.

Here are the effective ways to handle a situation where you might find someone attempting to bully you, make you look dumb, or convince you that their position is right and yours is wrong.

Gaining these techniques will have you counter an aggressive situation and earn the respect of the person with whom you are speaking.

  1. Recognize the clues early in the conversation: Tone and word choices like “Admit,” “What do you have to say for yourself?” “So you’re saying…” ( plus oversimplification or mischaracterization) are clues to listen for.
    Solution: You say, “Well, actually, what I was saying is…” and then repeat yourself.
  2. Notice when someone says to you something that makes it seem like you believe something you do not believe. This is the hidden presupposition.
    Solution: Assume a relaxed posture and allow yourself time to think about what was being asked or said to you.
  3. Asking multiple questions without a breath to overwhelm you so you lose focus.
    Solution: Say, “Let me answer your questions one at a time. First…”

And if you would like to see the 11-minute video this post is based upon, you can check it out here:

To Your Prosperity,

Rennie