10 Tips on How to "WIN" an Argument Everytime

Like you, I have been in many disagreements in my life. Some disagreements were worthless, which began as opinions and ended up in the same place they started. Just two people thinking they could change the mind of the other person with their ability to persuade.

In light of what I have learned the hard way and what I have observed in human behavior as a counselor over the last 30 years, let me give you some ideas on how to "WIN" AN ARGUMENT. These are guaranteed tried and true ways to "win" every time.

1. First get emotional. That always works. As you become more emotional, the other person will be so impressed with your enthusiasm they will likely agree with you based on that alone. And be sure to become angry, red-faced and loud as your emotions rise. Loud always works, especially if you happen to be dealing with your teenager or child at home. You will seal the deal by showing them you can be loud too!

2. State your opinion as if it were a fact. Everybody's opinions are based on facts they have either read, heard or seen on some television newscast. The truth is we all know 'perception is reality'.

3. Bring up an old disagreement or some fact from the past about the person that wasn't solved. It's good to pick at some old sore that hasn't healed. Because you have such a great memory, haven't forgotten and can easily recall it, will likely overwhelm the other person to change their mind. They will walk away defeated and discouraged which is the reason you brought it up in the first place.

4. Become aggressive. Stomp your feet. Slam something on the desk or table. Throwing things always works. Be careful though on hitting the other person. Many a person didn't realize the other person had a black belt in Tae Kwan Do and ended up really losing the disagreement!

5. Make the other person the issue instead of the issue the issue. Make it personal. And be sure to question the motive of the other person. Surely, they are out to make you look bad, to humble you, to let you know they are smarter than you or out to get you. There always has to be an alterior motive.

6. "Chase rabbits". If you think you're losing the disagreement then change course quickly! Bring up some other issue that is a hot topic or better yet, mention another person and begin degrading that individual. Diverting attention to someone else confuses them.

7. If at all possible, bring up religion or politics. If the person isn't mad yet, this is a sure fire way to get them there. And then subtly and slyly jump in with your 'know it all' or righteous and holier than thou attitude. This works wonders.

8. Talk in public and try to embarrass the other person. If you can get enough people to hear and see that you're right, the better. In fact to impress the other person that you know what you're talking about, let them know you have talked with 'many' other people who share your opinions. Name dropping would come in very handy here. Nothing shows insecurity like stating your resume verbally. Give it a try.

9. Assumptions or blame are always effective. And speaking of effective, use words like 'always' and 'never'.

10. Talk, talk, talk, and talk some more. Don't even think about listening. Monopolizing the conversation is key. It tells the person that you are all about yourself and couldn't care less about their needs or thoughts.

Okay I've come up with 10. Give me one of your tips to pass along. Not sure you can give me something 'I don't already know since I am fully aware I know everything about disagreements'.