Before you even start the mask conversation, Gaylor said, take a step back. Remember that, even though it might feel like it, this person's disagreement is not with you personally. "We all tend to be protective of our beliefs," she said; yes, sometimes to the point of risking safety before admitting that there are different views. "It's important that people understand that the resistance is not about them," Gaylor explained. "It's really about the person wanting to protect their own beliefs and values."
With that in mind, know that the person you're talking to may get defensive when they hear a different view about face masks, causing them to "dig their heels in deeper," Gaylor continued. "And then it becomes a power struggle." At that point, it's no longer about wearing a mask or not; it's about "winning" the fight. You're less likely to actually convince the person to wear a mask once the they get entrenched in their opinion.
So what is the right approach?