Stage 7 · Lesson 2 of 6
Disagreeing with seniors and teachers
Disagreeing with someone senior feels risky, especially where respect for elders and teachers runs deep. Make it easier by choosing the setting: a private conversation is often better than correcting them in front of others. Ask questions rather than declaring they are wrong: "Could you help me understand why we chose X over Y?
I was worried about..." Bring evidence: a link, a number, a test. Accept that the final decision may be theirs.
You have done your job by raising the point clearly. If something is unsafe, unethical or illegal, that is different; raise it firmly and use official channels if needed.
Common trapbelieving your only options are silent agreement or open challenge.
A question to check yourself and an AI practice session come when you add the roadmap to your account. Add it
Resources for this stage
Start with· follow one of these
- VideoFreeHow to Disagree Productively and Find Common Ground (Julia Dhar, TED@BCG)
Julia Dhar (TED@BCG Toronto)
A debate champion on finding common ground and disagreeing without a fight
- CourseFreeGoogle Technical Writing Courses
Google
Free short courses on clear technical writing from Google
Practise
Keep handy
Also worth your time
Struggling right now? If you are in danger or thinking about harming yourself, contact local emergency services or a crisis line: Find a helpline (any country), Umang (Pakistan), Tele-MANAS, 14416 (India).