Every relationship experiences stress. Sometimes stress comes from problems at work or with family and/or friends that behold any importance in our lives. Stress can also come from the couple's issues, such as an argument, a prolonged undiscussed fight, differences in wants or needs, or feeling neglected.
Impact of stress in relationships
Stress is an everyday part of adulthood however, it should not be bottled up or it can be harmful for the relationship/ friendship or any relation you hold with the other person. Not dealing with stress can create a negative cycle where partners eventually become each other's "stress".
Ways to manage relationship stress
Here are some tips to help you navigate conflicts and come at peace with your partner, family or friends.
1. Acknowledgement
Relationship quality is more about how you deal with conflict than what you fight about. Everyone approaches conflict differently. However, it is important to agree that you are conflicting with someone. Once you acknowledge the stress, it is easier to deal with the make-believe denial.
2. Confront
Being said, snapping or responding with words and actions you may later regret can only add to your stress levels and make it more difficult to deal with things and the concerned person. Therefore, if you’re upset, talk with that person in a sit down conversation. Explain why you want to have this discussion and share what you hope to accomplish after that. It is equally important to have an open mind to other person's thoughts and opinions, too.
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3. Reflect on the conversation
Once the confrontation is done, it is time to act upon the changes asked and shared. Make sure that your actions speak louder than the words. Evident progress would still require a series of conversations and a willingness to keep trying to make the relationship work.
4. Practice acceptance
No human is perfect and no one can function exactly the way you would want them to. Therefore, instead of dwelling on the negative traits, focus on what they bring to the table and the qualities you love about them. Learn to accept them as a whole and embrace the relationship better.
5. Forgive and forget
As partners it is necessary to take full responsibility of your actions. Be respectful to your partner, and give them the required space to deal and process with conflicts and stress. Forgive if they did something that is forgivable and work on rebuilding the trust instead of hovering over the wrong that is already done. Most of all, never give up.
When things your partner go south, and you feel that you’re under siege, you’re less likely to respond constructively and more likely to resort to unhealthy behaviors. This type of conflict is harmful for any and every relationship. Follow the above mentioned tips to have a happy and healthy relation with your partner/friend.
