Building healthy relationships.

Abstract

Choose the specific ideas or techniques presented here that will be most helpful to you. 2. Be specific: take time to reflect on what you are upset about and focus on specific actions, feelings, and attitudes. 3. Listen carefully. Allow each individual uninterrupted time to explain his/her viewpoint. 4. Work on one issue at a time. Decide what is the uppermost concern and discuss it. 5. Ask for reasonable change. Determine what you really want from the person, then ask yourself if it is realistic and authentic. Give the person a chance to correct the situation. 6. Try to accept: be open to the other person’s feelings and accept them without being judgmental. 7. Be willing to compromise: avoid trying to win. Try to find a solution that is satisfying for you both. 8. Realize the need to accept an incomplete resolution of a conflict. At times, completely resolving an issue is impossible. 9. If you have extreme difficulty expressing your feelings, try writing them down in a note or letter. 10. After the discussion is over, EXPRESS YOUR APPRECIATION for the other’s listening to and discussing the issue with you. Reaffirm your respect and affection for each other. Finish on a positive note.