Rules of thumb for maintaining a healthy relationship

December 12

rules of thumb for maintaining a healthy relationship and managing conflicts:

Be a good listener. If both of you can listen fully to each other then you will reinforce a sense that what you feel matters to the other. You can focus entirely on your partner's point of view, knowing that he/she will listen to your side next.
Accept that there are at least two points of view. In most situations or disagreements, there are at least two points of view or two ways of looking at something. By approaching a difference in opinion with this premise in mind, you automatically keep yourself open to resolving the conflict or finding a compromise.
Respect and acknowledge each other's feelings. If we allow ourselves to acknowledge our partner's feelings, then we create a sense of mutuality: you have your feelings, I have mine. When this reality is in place, couples are much more apt and willing to end an argument and find common ground.

12:31 PM | Blog it

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