Conflicts happen in all relationships be it friendships or romantic relationships. Families and friends disagree; humans, in general, disagree to agree. The word relationship can otherwise be put as relating to creating a ship i.e. understanding one another to create an easy journey. Disagreement is bound to happen, but what is important is how they are dealt with. The way you deal with issues in a relationship will determine its lifespan. Below are some tips on how to maintain a healthy relationship;
1. Create a communication channel
In a healthy relationship, there should be a free flow. You and your partner should communicate openly about what is bothering you. It’s important to discuss and find a solution to things that causes disagreement. Communication is an expressive channel, through which others know you.
2. Maintain a high level of self control.
Don’t cross lines and start insulting your partner. Keep the focus of the dispute on the issue at hand and don’t bring personal jibes and put-downs into it. No matter what caused the argument, no one should yell at you, curse, or otherwise make you feel uncomfortable and/or scared when you are arguing. You should never feel like you are being attacked or need to tread carefully to not make your partner any angrier.
3. Understand the cause of the problem.
Sometimes when you argue with your partner it is because someone’s needs are not being met. If it seems like your partner is sweating the small stuff, take a moment to evaluate whether there is a larger issue at hand. Consider things from your partner’s point of view and put yourself in their shoes – how would you feel if the roles were reversed? Be understanding.
4. Find a common ground.
Finding a balance between what both partners want and are comfortable with is very important. If you both care about making the relationship work you will come to an agreement on things without feeling like you are making huge sacrifices for your relationship. Compromising is a key way to resolve conflicts, and finding a common-ground might be easier than you think!
5. Find a healthy mechanism to issues.
Sometimes we need to consider whether what we are fighting about is really worth arguing over. If the problem is small, sometimes it’s best to just drop it. A little ”sorry it will never happen again can save the relationship”.
In conclusion, the world will be a better place if we can create a healthy means of handling our conflicts. The word “sorry” goes a long way in cooling a raging heart of anger.
