Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Relationship Success Tip #3 - Be a Team

In our intimate relationships, we have 2 people, each with their sensitivities, and priorities. Both of us will act in our own best interests, as is human nature. As we grow together, we strive to become closer, and when things are going well, it is easy to think of us as a team. We do fun things together, we live together, and generally enjoy each other and our lives together.

However, sometimes, our best interests conflict, or there is miscommunication between us. When this happens, the relationship becomes polarized, and we feel as though we are against one another, one of us has to "win" before things can settle down. This can put a great deal of stress on the relationship, particularly with any degree of stubbornness on either of us.

When I've encountered this type of situation in the past, I always remind myself and my wife that we are a team. This automatically reminds us of why we chose to be together in the first place! Once we get back into the "team" mindset, the aggression and tension between us dissipates, and we're able to work together towards a peaceful resolution.

No comments: