Engaging in what might euphemistically be called a ‘lively’ conversation often gets the better of me. Someone makes a statement I find patently ridiculous and I feel the need to ‘educate’ them.

As I’m writing, I can already envision their response, to which I’m already formulating my rebuttal.

My what? So, I’m already assuming they’re going to argue with me? Well, if that’s my attitude, it’s no wonder what I wrote garners an angry response.

Intent is a powerful tool. In the ‘trust tree’ it’s the trunk—the only portion that’s partly invisible, partly visible. Our intent begins inside, then becomes evident to others.

If my intent is positive, if my intent is to share my views in a way that might motivate someone to change theirs, shouldn’t that hopeful, positive attitude be obvious in what I write?

How can it be, if my real intention is to tell them off?

If someone totally cheeses you off with their stupidity, try this (I intend to). Envision, not your words, but their response. Envision the perfect response, where they realise the error of their ways, and wholeheartedly come over to your point of view.

Now, write words that will get that response.

You have a much better chance of hitting the target if you

1. know what it is, and
2. actually aim at it