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10 Power Phrases To Master Your Next Argument
10 Power Phrases To Master Your Next Argument
PHRASES
TO
MASTER YOUR
NEXT ARGUMENT
JEFFERSON FISHER
- Jefferson
Instead respond with “Maybe you’re right.” It works because you are at least
considering the possibility that they could be right. And most of the time, that’s all
they want.
Instead, say “I can do better.” It instantly puts the flame out and puts you out in front
as the bigger person.
When you respond with “That's helpful to know,” you acknowledge their feedback
without agreeing. This immediately de-escalates potential conflict and extends an
invitation to dialogue, not a battleground for egos.
You are letting them know that you cannot accept or process any of what they’re going
to say until you’re finished speaking. They’re going the wrong way on a one-way street
—and you’re drawing a clear boundary against it.
© JEFFERSON FISHER 2023 | 10 POWER PHRASES TO MASTER YOUR NEXT ARGUMENT
PHRASE #5: “WE REMEMBER THINGS
DIFFERENTLY.”
It's natural for each person to have their own perspective—but it’s not okay when
they try to push their perspective down your throat.
That’s when to assertively use the phrase “We remember things differently.” If they
argue and push back against you, just repeat it. Say, “We remember things
differently,” or “That wasn't my experience.”
Instead of getting all upset and going off on a tangent, you will assert yourself and
say, “Don’t apologize for my feelings. Apologize for what you did.” It’s like you
saying, “No, these are my feelings. I got those. I’ll be accountable for those. You be
accountable for you.”
It shows you're listening and you appreciate their honesty. This can calm things
down and make them feel respected. It's like a quick pause that says, “Your
point has been heard,” without getting lost in emotion.
This enforces your limits in a direct, practical way, letting the other person know
you're serious about your boundaries and willing to take action to maintain them.
In the silence, the person is left to contemplate the weight of their own
statements—and it’s not uncommon for them to modify or even withdraw a
harsh comment. Remember, your greatest tool is silence because silence can
never be misquoted.
As you apply these phrases in your daily conversations, watch how they
transform how you argue and how you connect with those around you.
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- Jefferson
@Jefferson_Fisher @JustAskJefferson
@JeffersonFisher @JeffersonFisher