5 Ways to Handle Relationship Conflict and Strengthen Your Bond
No relationship is perfect, and conflicts do occur. Just because you have disagreements with your partner doesn’t mean your relationship is doomed or in trouble.
In fact, it could mean just the opposite. It all depends on how you handle relationship conflict.
There are right and wrong ways to argue when a conflict occurs. Doing it the wrong way can lead to a breakdown in your relationship. But, doing it the right way can actually strengthen your bond.
With that in mind, let’s look at a few ways you can deal with relationship conflict and come out stronger than ever as a couple.
Create a Communicative Environment
One of the most important things you can do in your relationship is to create an environment where communication is always welcomed. When you know you can talk openly to your partner, you’re less likely to hold things in until they become even worse.
Commit to talking to one another about anything and everything. Don’t wait until you have an argument to bring up the “bad” things, and don’t be shy about sharing the positive things in your relationship, too!
Stay Calm
It’s easy to get worked up during an argument, but when you do, you’re more likely to say something you don’t mean.
When you’re in a conflict with your partner, try your best to stay calm and collected. If you need to walk away for a few minutes to process your thoughts and take a breath, that’s fine! Just make sure you don’t ignore the argument, completely.
Don’t Focus On Other Problems
When you’re in the middle of a conflict, your common goal should be to get to the root of that problem and nothing else. It isn’t the time to bring up other things that are bothering you. In fact, that will make the argument worse and more hurtful.
Stay committed to the topic you’re on, and understand that you both want to come to a resolution without having to dig up other problems from the past.
Understand You’re On the Same Team
Conflict can cause contention in a relationship. But, it’s important to remember that your partner isn’t your enemy. You’re on the same team. No one wants to argue, and you both probably have similar end-goals in mind. You just might have different ways of getting there.
By working as a partnership instead of adversaries, you’ll be more likely to reach a peaceful resolution or compromise without dragging out the conflict for days or weeks at a time.
Pick Your Battles
While you shouldn’t avoid conflict and arguments if something is really bothering you, you also shouldn’t start them up for no reason. Think about the thing that’s upsetting you. Will you still be just as upset about it tomorrow, or is it something that doesn’t need to be dragged on?
“Picking fights” all of the time can lead to a lot of tension and stress within your relationship. Decide what really matters to you, and go to bad for those things. If a small irritation can be let go, then let it go.
You’ll feel better if you don’t hold onto every little thing that doesn’t matter, and when you do argue with your partner, the way you do it will be more meaningful and powerful.
Again, conflicts in a relationship aren’t necessarily a bad thing. It’s how you deal with them that makes the difference. If you’re having a hard time handling conflict and you feel as though your bond is weakening, feel free to contact us for more information or to set up an appointment.
