In today’s world, politics seems to be everywhere — in our newsfeeds, our conversations, and sometimes even our closest relationships. It’s easy for strong opinions to cause tension, especially between friends who once saw eye to eye on everything else. But good friendships are too valuable to lose over political disagreements. Here’s how you can protect your friendships even when your political views don’t align.
1. Remember What Brought You Together
Focus on shared history, values, and memories rather than political differences.
Maybe you and your friend bonded over late-night study sessions in college or supported each other through tough times at work. Those moments are more defining than who you voted for last election.
Sarah and Jenna had been best friends since high school. When they found themselves on opposite sides of a major political issue, their conversations grew tense. One day, Sarah decided to invite Jenna over and spend the afternoon looking through old yearbooks and talking about their wild teenage adventures. They laughed until they cried. It reminded them that their friendship wasn’t built on politics — it was built on love and loyalty.
2. Practice Respectful Listening
Hear your friend out without immediately preparing a rebuttal.
If your friend shares a viewpoint you disagree with, instead of interrupting, try asking, “Can you help me understand why you feel that way?”
Marcus loved debating, but he noticed every conversation with his friend Tim became a battleground. One day, he decided to just listen. Tim explained his viewpoint calmly, and Marcus realized that even though he disagreed, Tim’s views came from a place of personal experience, not malice. Their friendship grew stronger because Tim felt heard — not judged.
3. Set Boundaries Early
Know which topics are off-limits and agree to avoid them if needed.
You might say, “Hey, I love hanging out with you, but can we avoid talking politics? I’d rather focus on what we enjoy together.”
Priya and Lena, roommates in a bustling city, realized that political discussions always ended in frustration. They made a pact: no politics at the dinner table. Instead, they talked about books, travel plans, and funny moments from their day. Their friendship flourished because they respected each other’s boundaries.
4. Assume Good Intentions
Believe that your friend’s views come from a sincere place, even if you can’t relate to them.
Instead of thinking, “They’re wrong,” try thinking, “They see the world differently based on their experiences.”
After a heated argument about an election, Jamal nearly cut ties with his childhood friend Aaron. But after cooling down, Jamal remembered how Aaron had once spent an entire weekend helping him move apartments. He realized Aaron’s political views didn’t erase the years of kindness and loyalty he had shown.
5. Accept That Agreement Isn’t the Goal
You don’t need to win an argument; you need to preserve the relationship.
Sometimes the healthiest thing you can say is, “We’ll have to agree to disagree — and that’s okay.”
During a family vacation, Beth and her best friend Olivia got into a heated political debate. It ended with Olivia saying, “I love you too much to fight about this. Let’s go for a swim.” That moment taught Beth that preserving their bond mattered more than proving a point.
Friendships are like gardens: they need tending, patience, and care. Politics, while important, is just one aspect of life. The best friendships can survive — and even thrive — when we remember that love, respect, and shared experiences run deeper than any ballot box.
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Dr. Alfred D'Silva 
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