Resolving Conflict in Relationships

The fact that conflicts in relationships are inevitable remains an undeniable truth. While some tiffs bring the couple closer to each other, there are some which are hurtful and destructive. At the onset, it is important for the couple to avoid any such issue, since it can shake the very foundation of their love and relationship. Secondly, even if issues do crop up, it is important to remember that nothing is greater than your relationship. Conflict resolution is not that difficult a task as it is considered to be. What it requires is a conscious effort on part of both the partners, who are ready to solve things with an open mind and value each other’s feelings. To know how to resolve conflicts in a relationship, read on.

Resolving Conflict in Relationships

Compromising

Compromise is the sure shot formula for resolving conflicts in a relationship. Approaching any circumstance with a right or wrong attitude leads to a win or lose situation. This aggravates the affair and takes the form of an issue. Both the individuals vie to prove the other person wrong & eventually end up being bitter and resentful. On the other hand, compromise provides a win-win situation. Each partner has a role to play and should not stick to his version, rather have an open approach. The three basic ingredients of compromise are

Both of them should give a little
The couple should meet as many needs as possible
Both of them should work for the betterment of the relationship, rather than their own desires.

Capitulation

Capitulation is basically giving the authority in other person’s hands and being ready to do things his way. Though it may sound difficult to do and mean dependence on the other person, at times, it is very necessary. You can see it from a completely different perspective and name it cooperation. This is because capitulation basically states that the relationship is superior to anybody’s will and even the issue. Thus, giving up in front of the other person reaffirms the above feeling and reassures that you are ready to do efforts to make things better.

Co-existence

Usually after a certain period of time, couples become individualistic in approach. They give more importance to their own ideologies and perspectives and find it hard to put themselves in other person’s shoes. It is important for a couple to understand that conflicts in relationships are inevitable and partners can differ over issues at times. Learning to ‘agree to disagree’ is a vital point in any relationship. If you disagree, patch things up by compromising. This way both of you can resolve any issue, without damaging your relationship.

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