Healthy Relationships Part 3

Welcome back to the series on building and sustaining healthy relationships.

Sorry for the long delay in getting this post published , I have been busy working on my masters program (getting so close to the finish line!)

In Part 1, we explored the importance of communication and trust

In Part 2, we looked at personal growth and quality time as essential pillars of connection

Now, in Part 3, we dive into a vital component that often make the difference between a relationship that merely survives, and one that truly thrives:

Conflict Resolution Skills

even the healthiest relationships experience conflict

The goal isn’t to eliminate conflict altogether (that’s not realistic!) but to develop skills and strategies to navigate it in ways that promote understanding, growth, and connection, rather than resentment or distance

Here are a few ways to foster healthier conflict resolution in your relationship

Stay Curious, Not Combative

When tensions rise, it’s tempting to move into a defensive or argumentative stance. Instead, try approaching the situation with curiosity:

What’s really going on here?

for me, and for them?

This shift in mindset opens space for empathy and mutual understanding, rather than blame or criticism

Use “I” Statements

Not Accusations

There’s a big difference between the statements:

“You never listen to me” 

and

“I feel unheard when I’m talking and there’s no response.”

The former invites defensiveness whereas the latter invites dialogue.

Try expressing your feelings and needs without making it about what your partner is doing “wrong”

Take a Pause

Not every disagreement needs to be solved in the heat of the moment

It’s okay to say “I want to talk about this, but I need a few minutes to gather my thoughts first”

Coming back to a discussion with a clearer head can change the tone and outcome

Stay on Topic

It’s easy to bring up past grievances during an argument

try to stay focused on the current issue

One conversation at a time helps prevent overwhelm and ensures both people feel heard on the matter at hand

And last, and maybe most important:

Repair and Reconnect

Every couple argues

what matters is how you repair

A kind word, a hug, or even acknowledging

“Hey, I didn’t handle that well, I’m sorry”

can go a long way in rebuilding trust and restoring closeness

Conflict isn’t a problem to be “solved” once and for all

Relationship expert Dr. John Gottman once said up to 70% of conflicts in relationships are perpetual, meaning they are ongoing, rooted in differences in temperament, personality, values, or lifestyle preferences

Conflict is a part of every relationship journey

What makes the difference is how you show up for each other during hard moments

This is part of the work people talk about when they say

“relationships take effort”

but this is the kind of work that builds resilience, intimacy, and deeper love

Please check back soon for more, where we’ll explore Affection and Appreciation, simple everyday acts that keep connection strong