Positively Addressing Relationship Conflict

Are you noticing that you’re having more conflict with loved ones recently? Between work and the pandemic, our baseline stress levels have been significantly increased without us even realizing. Read on for some ways to navigate conflict with your partner or other loved ones. 

Identify ways you can take care of yourself. No I don’t mean a fancy “treat yoself” day, but are you sleeping, drinking enough water, and eating? Many of my clients find themselves working through lunch and forgetting even to get up to use the bathroom. Try to make time every few hours to stand up, have something to drink and eat, and stretch or move your body. We often carry our stress in bodies neglecting to release our tension which leads to discomfort and grumpy moods.

 Identify which relationship seems to be struggling and potential reasons why. Are you feeling unheard? Unappreciated? Have you or your loved one allowed work or school to take over as first priority and now you feel unconnected? My first step here is simple: have fun. Whether its your intimate partner, friend, or your child- plan something to have fun together. Play cards, make pizza at home, go explore a new restaurant or store. These tasks allow you to have positive time with your loved one before diving into the reasons for conflict. 

 Carve out time to explore the conflict. Try listening without interrupting, apologize without adding conditions, avoid using “always”, “never” and “you statements” and these often create defensiveness in the other person. If either person becomes too heated to have a constructive talk, allow for a brief cool down period. Try not to end the conversation without a resolution unless both partners agree to this. And always remember what you love about the other person.

Reach out today if you feel that a neutral third party could help you identify patterns or behaviors that are creating conflict in your relationships. I’d be happy to talk with you more about this!