7 Tips for Couples on Resolving Conflict by Margarita Tartakovsky l Relationship Advice l Relationship Tips l Working Out Relationship Issues

Set a Shared Goal

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Be specific about what you’d like to be resolved and how you’ll know when you’ve resolved it, Levy said. “Setting a goal will start the conversation on neutral ground, serve as a reminder that you both want the same thing, keep the discussion on track and avoid introducing unnecessary dialogue.”

For instance, a wife who feels she does more around the house often nags her husband. The wife is tired of nagging, and the husband is tired of hearing the nagging. Their shared goal is to figure out what needs to change so the nagging stops.

Again, conflict isn’t inherently bad. When you can approach it in a calm, constructive manner, it can actually be a good thing, and even help you get closer.