knowing when the conversation is over

One difference between successful Pirate Leadership and the terrifying stories we hear about modern day pirates, is that powerful Pirates know when the conversation is over.

This might mean we need to take a different tack, or change the conversation, or look for treasure else where. It does NOT mean that weapons will solve the problem, nor will entering into a debate using the standard debate rules. In fact, based on the rules of engagement used in debate, Pirates lose. 

My husband taught me this. While he does have a black belt in some form of martial arts, he says that using that form of fighting in only effective if the other person fights by the same rules. Change the rules and the black belt does not always have an advantage.

This is a Pirate leadership strength. Know when the conversation is over, know when to change the conversation, and know when to change the rules. Beware the crew member who belongs to a debate team. Debate continues a conversation that needs to end. Debate often opens rabbit holes that lead to a Pirate's demise as quickly as a hidden reef.