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Olivia Moncrieffe

Every so often, we become involved in situations that evoke questions such as: “Should I go off on that person?” or “Should I fight that person?” or “Would it be okay if I just walked away from the situation?” or “Would it be cool if I just kept my cool?”

As silly as it may sound, someone keeping their cool and being relaxed versus getting hostile and irate is a hard behavior to maintain in today’s society. In this day and age, television and social media are highly influential. On television shows and on social media groups, we commonly see fighting, or arguments commonly known today as “beef.”

It may seem entertaining at first because we are so used to seeing individuals act out of character; however, I think that in a way people are brainwashed to think that fighting and arguing is something that is okay – perhaps even cool. We are sometimes surrounded by negative people who instigate us to get irate and worked up – which often leads to a fight or an argument.

I feel that when in a social environment and surrounded by these negative influences, walking away from a conflict often makes someone look like the weaker link. But, I totally disagree; it is perfectly normal to be the bigger person and let the situation go.

When we allow people to get the best of us, not only does it make us upset, but it also gives the person who made us angry the satisfaction of knowing that he or she was able to get under our skin.

If we act out of character in a professional environment, such as at school or on a job, we ultimately give others the impression that we are angry, uncontrollable, and hostile. Not only does this give us a bad perception, but it could lead to consequences, such as suspension or expulsion. Or more simply – someone might not be willing to work with us.

Many may disagree with my opinion on being the bigger person because, honestly, we know that walking away from conflicts is sometimes hard to do. If you are involved in a conflict with another person and you can’t let the situation go, the best thing to do is to talk about the problem with that person. Not yelling – yelling doesn’t help situations – but working on the situation in a calm, mellow-toned approach. Remember, raise your argument, do not raise your voice.

I sometimes think that when we are able to to talk to individuals respectfully, it is easier for one to understand where the other person is coming from and it allows others to see one’s maturity. I feel that as people we are meant to be happy and meant to strive for contentment. In order to reach happiness, we should come together as a whole and try to dismiss conflict, rather than entertain it.