How to Avoid Violent Fights
You might think that your chances of becoming involved in a violent fight are minimal. You might think that, if you are careful to avoid road rage, and if you stay out of dangerous bars, you will not need to worry about becoming involved in a serious fight.
Think again! There has been enough violence between fans of different sports teams at sporting events in California that the California State assembly unanimously passed the “Improving Personal Safety at Stadiums Act.” This type of violence also occurs among adults attending the sports events of their children. Do you think that sports events are the only other places where violent fights might break out?
Think again! A brawl even broke out at the Chuck E. Cheeze Restaurant. It was not stopped until the police arrived and eventually had to use pepper spray.
You should be prepared to avoid fights in many places where you think there is very little danger of becoming involved in one. Since you have much more control over your own actions than over the actions of others, this article will emphasize how you can avoid fights by controlling your own actions.
Get Dan Vale’s stories in your inbox
Join Medium for free to get updates from this writer.
For example, if you encounter an angry sports fan whose team has lost to your team, you could use self-effacing humor and say that nobody was more surprised about your team’s win than you were. You might add that you do not think your team would have won if it had not played its best game. Proverbs 15:1 reads, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
There are many situations in which common courtesies can keep minor problems from escalating. Using “sir” or “maam” is important. Using “excuse me,” “please,” and “thank you” can be helpful. A smile and a sincere compliment can make a difference in the intensity of the situation.
If you are at fault, apologize. You might never see this person again. Your status will be much more affected if you go to work with a black eye.
Bryant McGill once said, “Respectful communication under conflict or opposition is an essential and truly awe-inspiring ability.”
What suggestions do you have for avoiding violent fights?
