TIPS for Resolving Conflicts with Loved Ones
1.- Expect to reach a resolution.
Many of us take a fight-or-flight approach to conflict, sometimes only to make our point stick. You and your future partner are on the same side of the same team, which is difficult to remember when you are in a heated argument. Resolution is defined as both parties compromising to reach a solution. You need to remember that this fight is NOT about one person getting his way and the other person caving in because feeling manipulated or defeated. This is winning the battle and losing the war!
2.- Identify what you want.
Nobody has a cristal ball! Be responsible for your own side and offer your best information about your needs and wants. Take some time in private and decide what is what you want! Your partner cannot give you want you want if you don’t have the courage to ask for it.
3.- Generate options and possible solutions.
Be willing to back up your requests and desires with a solution that is mutually satisfactory. Back up your statement with a good argument that is reasonable, and see the reaction. See what you and your partner can work out for a mutually satisfying resolution. Don’t force a solution that has not the complete approval of the other side…or you will be back at the issue in dispute very soon.
4.- Choose mutual action.
Resolving conflict does not mean to take on more responsibility simply because it is easier than arguing, but sometimes it happens in this way. A relationship is a partnership, a joint effort to shoulder your own part of the deal.
If one person ends up being responsible for making the union work on every level, resentment will build up and it will not last. Sometimes men are less articulate, but it does not mean that you shy from a deep compromise to do your best to solve the issue.
5.- Set up Some Time to Evaluate the Outcome.
If the first solution doesn’t work, don’t be afraid to revisit the issue and make changes. Many times what seems doable in theory is flawed in reality. Do not chastise your partner, for that only will encourage avoidance in the future with other issues. What you need to build up is on the practice to share the discussion over the issue, the search for solutions and the wish to heal the relationship.
6.- Reinforce the emotional aspect at each step.
Send messages of appreciation for the effort that the other side is doing. It is important to keep the conversation in a respectful and appreciative mood, and to say frequently that you are thankful for that. You are building now strategies of good communication that will last for ever.
Looks like a good plan? Well, relationships are based on emotional processes, where we need daily doses of support and appreciation….if only we could remember this every day!
If the prospect of learning how to do “conflict solving with a loved one,” (while preserving the relationship) has called your attention, then you are on the right track.
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