Maintaining composure during challenging conversations requires a blend of self-awareness, empathy, and practical strategies.
Let me explain with an experience of mine->

A few months ago, I worked on a project with a close friend, and we hit a rough patch. We had differing opinions on a topic, and the discussion became heated. Sensing the rising tension, I took a deep breath to stay calm.

Instead of immediately arguing my point, I focused on listening to my friend’s perspective. I paused before responding, which allowed me to think through my words carefully.

I said, “I see your concerns and share some of them. Let’s find a solution together.” Using “I” statements kept the conversation constructive.

When the intensity increased, I suggested, “Let’s take a short break and revisit this in 15 minutes.” This pause helped us both cool off and return with a clearer mindset.

In the end, we reached a compromise that worked for both of us, and the project turned out great. This experience underscored the importance of staying composed, listening actively, and using empathy in challenging discussions with friends.