There's a quote that says, "A wise person is not one who wins an argument, but one who avoids arguments in the first place." Interestingly, what does that mean?

It is the tool that is used under such circumstances by this clever person.

Humans are social animals, and one of the most important tools for our coexistence is communication. Due to certain key components within the brain, humans possess a unique advantage over other animals: the ability to learn about mental development, meditation, and mindfulness. If this advantage is combined with essential life skills, it further enhances work quality, strengthens relationships, and improves overall well-being.

Typically, when discussing the fundamentals of communication, everyone is a communicator, acting as both a receiver and a sender simultaneously. The message conveyed can be both verbal (words) and nonverbal (body language such as eye contact, facial expressions, tone of voice, gestures, distance, and touch). This understanding is crucial because while listening, we are also sending nonverbal messages, and while speaking, we receive responses from the listener. Understanding this principle leads to effective communication for both senders and receivers (both verbal and nonverbal). However, in reality, this isn't always the case. Even with a good understanding of this fundamental principle, communication often fails due to interference from emotions and feelings, leading to misunderstandings, resistance, arguments, and sometimes even conflict. Therefore, practicing mindfulness (breathing awareness while speaking or listening) is a method chosen by those who consistently practice mindfulness to mitigate these problems and create more effective communication.

There are two interesting terms related to this: 'I-Message' and 'YOU-Message'. In psychology, using 'I-Message' to convey thoughts, feelings, or needs results in higher quality communication, fostering understanding and reducing conflict. This contrasts with 'YOU-Message', which is often accusatory, lecturing, or complaining, and frequently produces the opposite result.

"Why are you late again!" versus "I was worried you were late. Is something wrong?"

…this is an example of the use of ‘your language’ and ‘my language’ which should help to further clarify the explanation in this paragraph.

In the world of communication, while people appreciate hearing the truth, not everyone accepts it. Socrates offered an interesting insight: before speaking or communicating, one should consider three filters: 1. Truth, 2. Goodness, and 3. Beneficiality. This is because some words, even if true, can be destructive or hurtful, while others may not be useful. However, positive changes are always seen in communication when guided by mindfulness. Mindfulness fosters respectful communication, creates an environment conducive to positive coexistence, and ultimately, when mindful, reveals that letting go is achievable.

When one person influences others, sometimes that one person can create significant change. And that same person can even improve the atmosphere of coexistence with others, making it more pleasant. The important question to ask yourself is: Is it necessary for others to start first, when the true foundation and beginning lies within our own minds?