SLC-S24/W1 - Tangled Emotion | The Powerful Conversation

Hello Steemians! How are you friends? I Hope you are healthy and enjoying your life. First, let me introduce myself, I’m Abdul Sameer. Today, I’m excited to participate in Steemit Challenge Season 24. SLC-S24/W1 | Powerful Debate – Tangled Emotions post intro with A Customer Debates with a Shopkeeper for a Discount. That is beautifully organized by @sitaraindaryas

This time, I have chosen a light hearted yet emotionally tangled topic that most of us can relate to, a debate between a customer and a shopkeeper over a discount. But this is not just about money, it’s about respect, survival, and humor in daily life. So let's start

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In many parts of the world, bargaining is awkward. But here? It’s a ritual. A true desi knows that no price tag is final until you’ve tried your luck with a little charm, a dash of humor, and a confident smile. These five questions took me on a trip down memory lane, so here’s a full breakdown of my most unforgettable bargaining moments.

We bargain at local bazaars, stalls, and street corners not just to get a better deal, but to enjoy the experience. Below are my answers to five thought-provoking questions that took me deep into the heart of this everyday art form.

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1. Have you ever successfully bargained your way to a great deal?

Yes, I have successfully bargained my way to a great deal and it’s a memory that still makes me smile.

A few months ago, I visited a Hafeez center in Lahore to buy a HP 1030 G2 laptop. The prices were too much high, and every shopkeeper was quoting premium rates. But I had made up my mind, I was not going to leave without a laptop and a good deal. The shopkeeper saw me interested and jumped in.

Shopkeeper: “This one’s for 85,000 rupees for you (1996.2 Steem). Genuine 10/10 condition laptop!”
Me (grinning): “I came to buy a laptop, not a car, laptop price is too high bro.”
Shopkeeper (laughs): “Okay okay, I will do it for 83,500 rupees” (1961.9 Steem), now this better for you.
Me: “There is a some scratches on body and finger print sensor is also dirty here... how about 80,000 Rupees?”(1879.2 steem)
Shopkeeper: “You are killing me!” the only and final price is 82,000 rupees (,1926.6 Steem).
Me (pulls out wallet): “80,000 final. I’m walking otherwise.”
Shopkeeper (after a dramatic pause): “Fine, take it. You win.”

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What worked for you: persistence, politeness, or a little humor?

Honestly, it was a combination of all three.

Persistence played the biggest role. I didn’t accept the first offer, and I wasn’t afraid to negotiate step by step. I knew the price could come down, so I stayed patient and firm.

Politeness kept the atmosphere friendly. I made sure not to offend the shopkeeper or sound rude. Respect goes a long way in desi markets if they like your attitude, they’re more likely to offer you a better deal.

And of course, humor broke the ice. When I joked about buying a car instead of a jacket, it made the shopkeeper laugh, which lightened the mood. It turned the negotiation into a fun conversation instead of a heated argument.

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2. Do you believe it's fair to negotiate prices in local or small shops?

In some cultures or regions, negotiating prices is totally normal, even expected, and small business owners might leave room in their pricing for that. In other places, especially where prices are fixed and margins are tight, haggling might come off as disrespectful or unfair especially if it’s a tiny, independent business just trying to stay afloat.

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So I did say it can be fair if it's done respectfully and you’re sensitive to the situation. For example, if you're buying several items or if there's visible damage on a product, politely asking if there's any wiggle room might be okay. But it’s always good to read the room and support small businesses without putting pressure on them.

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Where do we draw the line between saving money and respecting hard work?

The line probably gets drawn at intent and impact. It's fair to try and save money in a way that still recognizes the value of a person's time, skills and effort. However, if you save money, it can cost someone else not being compensated for your work and become disrespectful there.

A few things to consider when walking that line:

Is the price already fair or even low?

Trying to get a discount on something handmade or underpriced might undervalue the work.

Are you negotiating with empathy?

Friendly and respectful questions are very different from aggressive negotiations.

Are you tight budgets or are you just looking for deals?

If you're financially comfortable, you might not feel right when you push for a discount from someone trying to make a living.

So it's really about respecting the hustle, respecting the hustle, and paying attention to your own needs at the same time. If they can't, support people if they can't.

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3. What is your strategy when you ask for a discount?

When I imagine asking for a discount (hypothetically speaking!), my approach would be all about respect, understanding, and fairness. Here’s a strategy I think would be effective:

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1. Do your homework: Know the high price range for similar products or services in your area or online. This will help you measure whether the price is right or whether there is space to request a discount without being inappropriate.

2. Create a relationship first: A friendly conversation before entering a discount request can be set a positive tone. People are more likely to offer trades when they trade with respect, not only to try and lower prices.

3. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of demanding a lower offer, something like, “Is there any flexibility on the price?” or “Are there any discounts available for this?” gives the shopkeeper room to consider it.

Ask open questions: Instead of asking for a lower price, there are: "Is there any price flexibility?

4. Unlock the Reason: If you have a reason to ask how to buy some items, how to pay in cash, or if there are some minor mistakes in the article, this can help. It's really about it and avoid it as if there's an unrealistic problems.

5. Accept Their Response Gracefully: If they say no, be gracious. Not every business can or wants to negotiate. Showing respect for their decision keeps the door open for future interactions.

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Dialogue Based on the Strategy

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Customer: Hey, it's really beautiful! Although we had similar things in mind, your job is definitely more unique. How much have you been doing this?

Shopkeeper: thank you very much! I have been doing same for five years. Each piece is handmade, so it takes time, but I enjoy it.

Customer: I can say it. It's clear that a lot of work is there. However, I noticed that the prices were slightly higher than expected. Is there any price flexibility when buying some of them?

Shopkeeper: (Think for a while) Buy some and offer a little discount. How many do you think it's?

Customer: “Maybe three. I’m actually planning to give a couple as gifts. Would you be able to offer a better price if I take all three?”

Shopkeeper: “For three, I can offer 10% off each one. Does that sound fair?”

Customer: “Perfect! That works for me. Thanks for being flexible with the price!”

It is polite and considerate in creating an environment where both sides feel comfortable.

Are you a sweeter speaker, a quiet smile, or a straightforward spokesman?

Sweet Speaker: Use charm and compliment to create a warm and engaging atmosphere and help you build connections quickly. While effective, it can come off as too smooth if not genuine.

Quiet Smiler: Speaks less, letting presence and body language communicate warmth. They are accessible and comforting, but their intentions can be hard to read.

Especially the spokesman: direct and clear, not pounding into the bushes. This approach is best for integrity, but can feel boring if not carried out carefully.

For me, I'm a mixture of straight spectrum and sweet speakers. I think it's clear and direct communication, but always have a respectful and warm tone. Honesty and empathy are key for me

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4. What is the most unexpected or hilarious response you have ever heard from a shopkeeper?

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I was in the Electronics gadget store and saw a new set of earbuds. After a few negotiations, I sought a better offer. The shopkeeper, who had been quiet up until then, suddenly turned to me:

ShopKeeper: "If I had sold these earbuds at this price, I could have heard the sound of my mistakes!"

Me (laughing): Don’t worry, I will give you a 5 star rating for your great effort!

Shopkeeper (grinning): Okay, for this kind of compliment, I'll give you a discount, but only if I promise to listen to music that won't make my earbuds cry.

I almost fell off my earbuds because I laughed so much.

Me: Alright, deal! I’ll make sure I only play happy music, like love or some good old Bollywood hits!

Shopkeeper (chuckling): "Well, that’s a relief. But if you start listening to some sad, slow tracks, these earbuds might just stop working altogether."

I could barely keep a straight face as he continued:

Shopkeeper: "In fact, if you play the wrong kind of music, these earbuds might even start sending me their resignation letter."

Me (laughing): "Don’t worry, I’ll keep it upbeat. You won’t be hearing any complaints from these earbuds."

By this point, we were both laughing so much that I didn’t even realize I had gotten a great deal. When I turned to leave the shop, and the shopkeeper gave me a thumbs up and said to me:

Enjoy the lovely, and Don't forget to leave me a 5 star review for me! It’s the only thing keeping me from hearing that ‘failure’ sound!

I walked out of the store with my new earbuds, feeling like I had just made a new friend not just a purchase. I couldn’t wait to get home and play my “happy” music, knowing I had a great deal, and an even better story to tell

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5. In a pricing debate, who do you usually support: the customer looking for value or the shopkeeper trying to survive? Why?

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The Customer’s Perspective: The Value Seeker

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We’ve all been that customer. Walking through markets, scanning price tags, comparing options, and trying to get the “best value for money.” It’s not greed it’s strategy. Especially in today’s economy, where prices are rising faster than salaries, every saved coin feels like a personal victory.

There’s a kind of joy in negotiating, in turning a 1500 item into a 1200 deal. It makes you feel smart, sharp, and financially wise. For many, especially middle-class families or students, every discount makes a difference. So yes, I respect and understand the customer’s hunt for value.

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The Shopkeeper’s Perspective: The Daily Warrior

Now Flip the Coin,

That shopkeeper standing in a sunlit stall or a tiny shop? He’s not just selling products, he is living off every sale. He might be paying rent, supporting children’s education, or covering medical expenses. He’s dealing with inflation, taxes, competition, and the pressure of making ends meet.

Sometimes, when we argue over Rs. 50 or Rs. 100, we forget that those “small” amounts add up for them. That extra 100 rupees could be the difference between a good day and a tough one. And if it’s a handcrafted item or a family-run business? You’re not just paying for a product you’re respecting craft, time, and dignity.

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So Who Do I Support?

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I support balance. I support conscious buying.

If it’s a big brand or mall, I’ll bargain, use coupons, find deals, because they can afford it. But if it’s a small business, a street vendor, or a local craftsman. I’ll either pay the full amount or politely ask, “Is there any small discount you can give?” And if they say no, I smile, thank them, and buy it anyway. Why? Because I’m not just buying an item, I’m supporting a dream.

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A Quick Story

Once, from a local market, I bought a handmade clay mug from an old man at a roadside stall. I asked him for a discount, and he softly said to me,

"Look, I make these with my own hands. If I reduce the price, it’s like devaluing my time."
That hit me. I ended up paying more than he asked. Not because the mug was worth more but because he was.

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I stand with value, but also with humanity. Because a great deal isn't always about paying less.Sometimes, the best deal is when both buyer and seller walk away feeling respected.

Let’s step into this everyday battlefield where discounts aren’t just numbers, they’re a matter of pride, patience, and playful drama.

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Thank you for reading my entry. I hope you enjoyed this light hearted yet emotional debate. Sometimes, even the smallest negotiations reveal the biggest truths about human nature. Looking forward to your feedback. Happy writing, Steemians!

At the end I would like to invite, ma'am @suboohi, @josepha, @chant and @artist1111 to participate in this Contest as soon as possible.

Best Regards,
Abdul Sameer