Any romantic relationship will inevitably have conflict; how it is handled will consequently influence how your relationship progresses.

Conflict can result from a wide range of problems, both minor and major.

What's important is how you and your partner handle the conflict. The relationship will grow stronger if you are able to overcome the conflict through open and honest communication. But, if you let the conflict fester, it can eventually cause you to part ways. If managed properly, conflict can be a good thing. It can help you and your partner identify any potential problems early on and work to resolve them before they get out of hand.  

There is no such thing as a perfect relationship. The strength of your connection may be determined by how you respond to conflict.

Here are some pointers on handling conflict healthily:

‍1. Don't shun confrontation. In the long run, avoiding conflicts at all costs will result in more serious issues. 

2. Avoid provoking your partner. It's easy to lash out at your partner when you’re angry or upset. Try to stay calm and communicate effectively.

3. Don't let things get to you. It is hard not to take things personally when you are having a disagreement. Keep in mind that your partner is addressing the current problem; they are not criticizing you personally.

4. Avoid attempting to resolve the issue on your own. Although it may be tempting, trying to handle the issue on your own may make matters worse. To end the conflict, your partner must feel heard and understood.

5. Keep trying. Conflict can be annoying and occasionally seem to have no end in sight. It's important to remember that your relationship is worth fighting for. With time and patience, you can work through even the most difficult conflicts.

Effective and healthy conflict resolution can be achieved in a variety of ways. Open and honest communication is one vital step. Conflicts often begin and are prolonged by miscommunication and misinterpreted words. This could be  because we wish to avoid the conflict or because we are frightened to tell the other person how we actually feel. Nonetheless, the best course of action for resolving the dispute is to be open and honest with one another. Use active listening. This indicates that you are truly listening to what your partner is saying rather than merely waiting for your turn to speak. Consider their viewpoint as well, even if you disagree with it. To end a conflict, respect is required. During a disagreement, refrain from calling your partner names or using insults. Be patient because resolving a conflict takes time. Last but not least, ask a professional for assistance if you believe the issue can simply not be fixed. Instead of turning to your friends or family in these situations, seek the advice of a therapist or counselor who can assist you in determining the root causes of the problem and teach you how to settle it in a healthy manner.

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Take the "Conflict Resolution" course on Couply to master healthy conflict resolution with your partner. Couply offers a variety of relationship questions, couple's quizzes, expert articles, and even games that you and your partner can enjoy together while building a stronger relationship.