While attending a continuing education class the facilitator shared a phrase that resonated with me, and it lingered in my mind the entire day. This powerful simplicity captivated me, “Argue like you’re right, listen like you’re wrong” This statement, popularized by organizational psychologist and best-selling author Adam Grant, suggest that having this type of mindset fosters communication and allows one to be open minded, and confident with intellectual humility. But just why did it resonate so much with me? I had never put a name to or understood how I processed information. I lead with humility and a desire to understand other perspectives. I am of the mindset that I have something to learn from everyone. While I may take a confident stance, I never want to be so closed minded that I overlook even the most minute detail. It sounds like I’ve been following the “Argue like you’re right, listen like you’re wrong philosophy in most instances and not realizing it. (though not necessarily arguing in the literal sense)
This phrase offers the delicate balance between confidence and humility that is truly required for effective communication. It asks the question: what if you’re wrong? If you are only listening to respond instead of listening to understand, where is the room for personal growth and development? I submit that having a mindset that allows a level of intellectual humility will allow us to broaden our horizons. It can help us to alleviate bias and embrace other perspectives. Open your mind to the views of others. By taking the approach of listening like you’re wrong you allow space for someone to present you with evidence that could potentially cause a shift in your view. You should always give yourself the freedom of adaptability, upon hearing sound evidence you can add to and adjust your perspective. Never shun improvement or expansion. I love learning, and the ability to be open to other perspectives allows for continued growth. Let’s dive in and break down the phrase “Argue like you’re right, listen like you’re wrong”:
Argue Like You’re Right
1. Confidence in your perspective: If you are confident in your perspective, whether it’s in a debate or teaching, or however you are communicating your perspective you can articulate your point more effectively. It also creates room for open and honest communication because you are buying into your stance. When you believe something, your perspective is far more compelling than when you’re unsure about what you believe.
2. Logic and Reasoning: While confidence is a key factor in arguing like you’re right, you should be able to support your position. Your position should be well thought out and logical, with sound reasoning. The facts do matter. Don’t just pull something out of the Ether and attempt to force others to accept your belief or what you’ve heard as fact. Always do your due diligence. This may enhance your perspective and lend more credibility to your point of view. It shows a commitment towards intellectual rigor.
3. Adaptability: Yes, while you are confident and even using great logic and reasoning you must remain open to added information. Your ability to process updated information and adapt your perspective is a sign that you want to engage in productive dialog, and it can also be seen as a sign of intellectual growth.
Listen Like You’re Wrong.
1. Humility and Open Mindedness: When you listen like you’re wrong you acknowledge that there is always the potential for your perspective to be flawed. It also means that you are open to learning from others, which also paves the way for more intellectual growth.
2. Active Listening: If you are going to adopt such a mindset it is imperative that you listen to others. When you are actively listening you are engaged in the discussion, which leaves room for you to ask poignant questions, and to get a clear understanding of what the other party is offering before offering your response.
3. Open to diversity of thought: By taking on the mindset to listen like you’re wrong you open your mind to a diversity of perspectives. It allows you to recognize that there are other approaches that are valuable. Isn’t it intelligent to keep your environment open to added information and knowledge that allows for unlimited growth? Healthy dialogue that is conducive to learning and moving communication forward seems like a winning combination for all involved.
“Argue Like You’re Right, Listen like You’re Wrong” requires a mindset change, but it also strikes a delicate balance between confidence and humility. It is certainly a philosophy that I plan to be more mindful of as I engage in communication with others. Learning to communicate more effectively considers all perspectives whether we agree with them or not. Moreover, it allows for intellectual growth. And Afterall, shouldn’t we all strive for more growth?