How Do You Really Agree to Disagree?

“Let’s agree to disagree.” Sounds civil enough, doesn’t it? But if we’re honest, it often follows a moment where emotions are simmering, frustration, anger, sadness, maybe even a pinch of shame. You’ve reached that stalemate where convincing each other feels as useful as shouting into the wind.

Whether it’s politics at the dinner table, a clash of values, or a friend who just won’t see it your way, these moments test more than our patience. They touch on self-esteem, empathy, confidence, and how safe we feel being ourselves around difference. Can you still respect, maybe even value, a view that opposes yours? Or does it make your blood quietly boil? (No judgment, we’ve all been there!)

In therapy, we often explore what sits beneath those reactions: the stories, values, and past experiences that shape how we handle disagreement. It’s not about learning to suppress your truth, but about holding it confidently while allowing space for someone else’s.

Over time, you can learn to respond rather than react, grounded, curious, and compassionate, even when you’d rather throw a cushion.

🌼 After all, growth rarely comes from everyone agreeing with you… tempting though that might be.

~ Jumbled Bean