Let’s Talk Politics

One thing we all know is it’s just not cool to talk politics where people from both sides of the aisle are gathered. Let’s just take a simple group like the Style Quirk gang. We’re a very diverse and fun-loving group, but the mention of politics is enough to induce a company melt down. I have heard so many stories of political arguments destroying friendships and causing tension among colleagues and coworkers. Just the political back and forth on my Facebook page amongst my friends is so irritating I end up ignoring it.

So here’s my question – why? What have we come to in this country where people are so set in their beliefs that you can’t have a constructive conversation about politics or the economy if you have people from both sides of the aisle gathered?

Before we proceed, let’s get something straight. Style Quirk has no political agenda and we have no plans to ever obtain one. We are about individual style and the respect that should go along with it. We live in an era where people crave and demand respect for whatever their pursuits are. That’s what we would like to showcase here at Style Quirk.

So, how come that would all go out the window if we talked about politics? Is there something we can do about it? Nobody here has any ideas. The trouble I see is that this is a presidential election year, and with all the money going into PACs, the airwaves are going to be flooded with commercials filled with propaganda on both sides. I figured we should make a list of what you can do if you do find yourself in a political argument.

1.      Respect. Remember respect. Everyone wants to be respected. If you respect their views, maybe they will respect yours.

2.      Try to find something you can agree on. That can always make for a good starting point.

3.      Try to relate things to your own life when explaining your viewpoint. People tend to listen more when you can explain why something is important to you.

4.      If all else fails, turn to comedy. Make light of the situation. Comedy is always a tension reliever, and it is way better than the alternative – a knock-down, drag-out argument that gets nowhere.

I’m not saying discard your political beliefs – far from it. I’m just dismayed by all the petty battles that erupt over politics, and that’s why Style Quirk stays out of most political discussion. We’re here to have a good time, not involve ourselves in a brawl.

What do you think?