Sometimes the best way to see eye to eye is to look away. Eye contact often signals trust and intimacy, but during conflict it can come off as threatening and aggressive. If the person you’re arguing with seems receptive to what you’re saying, eye contact can work in your favor—but if he’s overwhelmed or upset, or you notice him looking away, ease up on the stare-down. Maybe even go out for a walk, so you can talk things out while looking ahead instead of at each other.

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