People react to them in different ways. One way is to snap, tell what comes first to your mind, and brush aside those people and situations brusquely.
The other way is not to react, either by words or action, immediately. Wait for tempers to cool, and sort things out. Also, react in such a way that a situation doesn't get worse; instead engage in such a way that a resolution can be brought about.
My experiences in life have taught me that it works better for me when I am cautious and prudent rather than abrupt and impulsive. Probably it works the other way round for some people.
Diplomacy gives the room to adapt to situations, which means one gets more opportunities and avenues. It opens up the situations for one to look at different ways of moving forward.
Being diplomatic doesn't mean always being nice, flexible and accommodative. That could spell disaster. Sometimes being firm and abrupt can be a part of being diplomatic; because such an approach would be essential to yield a solution.
Diplomacy is sometimes misunderstood as surrender. One way I look at diplomacy is: the art of taking one step back in order to move two steps forward.
I will leave you with two quotes:
“Diplomacy is the art of telling people to go to hell in such a way that they ask for directions.”
― Winston S. Churchill
“Tact is the knack of making a point without making an enemy.”
― Isaac Newton
(This blog entry is a part of the "Blogging from A to Z Challenge April 2018")
As someone said, trying to negotiate getting a couple of kids to watch the same TV show requires serious diplomacy.
ReplyDeleteYes, SG. Very true.
ReplyDeletesorry, diplomacy not my cup of tea. have paid some price for it too. Trying to change. hope to improve.
ReplyDeleteThat's fine, Vijay. Not all people are the same. I am glad you are trying your best to make this better for you.
DeleteMy husband is quite diplomatic while I am more impulsive ...funny quote by Churchill
ReplyDeleteMy wife and I are on the same lines, like you said. I am diplomatic. But she is impulsive.
DeleteAs soon as I read your title "Diplomatic, to be or not to be", my mind shouted "definitely to be". Sometimes being diplomatic helps a great deal especially in bypassing a fight or argument. That quote coming from the popular British politician sums up the whole post.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Shesha, for dropping by and for your comment. I agree with your point.
DeleteOne should be diplomatic but that one is not me, sadly!
ReplyDelete