There are many things we can do to reduce the amount of conflict in our relationships.
It can be useful to consider how we think about certain situations, how they make us feel, and how our behaviour as a result affects those around us. For example, distancing ourselves from certain situations or ignoring others will not offer a solution to a problem.
Criticising others, being defensive or ‘having a go’ will also mean you’re less likely to deal with conflict positively.
Here are some things to try instead:
- Try and spend more quality time together, such as watching your favourite programme on TV with family members or having a regular date night with your partner.
- Choose the right time to address issues. Waiting for a quiet time in the evening may be better than during a busy school run.
- Be open to compromise.
- Listen to each other’s views without interrupting.
- Make sure everyone has an opportunity to have their say. Give the other person time to respond to what has been said, and most importantly, listen to what they’re saying.
- Communication is key – recognise things you agree on and use this in future discussions.
Children don’t come with a manual – an important part of shared parenting is finding out together what works best for you as a family.
Celebrating successes and talking about things that may need changing will help you communicate in an open and honest way. This will help create an environment where everyone’s views are heard and are equal within the relationship.