[Tuesday] Discussion: Disagreements

**Join our discord:** [https://discord.gg/sXmd8MRvmr](https://discord.gg/sXmd8MRvmr) **Disagreements** are a natural part of being human. We have different experiences, values, needs, and ways of seeing the world, so conflict and differences of opinion are inevitable. A disagreement can create distance, but it can also lead to greater understanding when approached with curiosity and respect. In this discussion, we'll explore how we respond when we disagree, what makes disagreements productive or destructive, and how we can maintain connection even when we don't see things the same way. 1. How do you typically respond when you strongly disagree with someone? 2. What makes a disagreement feel productive rather than destructive? 3. Is it possible to have a meaningful disagreement without trying to change the other person's mind? 4. Why do some disagreements become much more emotional than others? 5. How do you balance standing up for your beliefs with remaining open to another perspective? 6. What makes you feel heard during a disagreement? 7. Is knowing when to compromise a strength or can it sometimes mean giving up too easily? 8. How do you decide which disagreements are worth engaging in? 9. Can disagreements actually strengthen a relationship? How? 10. What role do curiosity and empathy play when we disagree? 11. What have disagreements taught you about yourself or the way you relate to others? These are just some of the questions we will discuss during our meetup. No preparation needed, just bring yourself and a willingness to listen and share your thoughts. The meetup will be structured in a way to promote small group discussion so everyone has a chance to listen, be heard, and really dive into the discussion. \- \- \- \- \- \#\# How our discussions work * **Each meetup has a clear topic and guiding questions.** We stay with them so everyone gets the conversation they came for. * **This is a reflective discussion, not a debate.** The focus is understanding and exploration rather than persuasion or winning an argument. * **We speak from personal experience.** Sharing is encouraged; judging, correcting, or speaking over others isn’t. * **We move one question at a time.** Related thoughts are welcome when they support the question we’re exploring. * **We share the space.** Everyone has a chance to speak, and no one is expected to dominate or perform. * **We listen generously.** Curiosity, presence, and openness matter more than certainty. * **This is a non-political, non-outrage space.** The emphasis is on reflection and connection, not debate or escalation. We'll arrange tables of 6 participants each. When you arrive, please gather at the main atrium - we'll be at the tables between big windows and the palm trees. Once enough people are assembled, I'll escort each group of 6 to their table to begin the discussion, and continue doing this as more participants arrive. Each table will receive a sheet containing the topic description and discussion questions. Feel free to take a photo or refer to the event page to have your own copy handy. The official event time is from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, but some of us stay longer, transitioning into informal conversations beyond the topic. You're welcome to join any other ongoing discussions once your initial group wraps up and members start leaving. Group: New York Interesting Conversations Group page: https://www.meetup.com/new-york-conversations Hosts: Marek Going: 85 / 100 spots Group members: 6,882 Recurring: Every 2 weeks on Tuesday until February 28, 2027 Official listing: https://www.meetup.com/new-york-conversations/events/315847833/