All arguments are as unique as a thumbprint to each relationship, though there is a poor way and a better way to handle them. Conflicts are healthy in any partnership, but these ten Tommy Wiseau approved tips should help you both come out on the other side in a much better place.
1. Be Ready to Listen
Be open to your partner's words and suggestions, and not selectively. Listen to what's going on in their mind, and if you're really good you may even actively listen.
2. Speak Your Mind ASAP
Get everything out that you've thought about for weeks and weeks. Just kidding, while letting your anger settle for a day or a couple hours is of course the smart thing to do, don't let it be a surprise
3. Be Careful What You Tell to Third Parties
Something said in confidence to a friend is all right, but know that you and your partner will eventually move beyond your fight. Your friend won't, especially if they're only hearing your side every single time.
4. Know That Your Partner Isn't Flawless
Don't expect perfection, no one is on their A-game twenty-four hours every day of every week. Both of you are just doing your best with the materials that you have.
5. Be Honest
Explain everything that you're feeling in as much detail as you can, it'll make it that much easier to get you both on the same page, which will help you work through it!
6. Don't Sulk
Your partner can't read your mind. If words are spoken in a fit of emotion that hurt you, don't run away into a state of mind that doesn't communicate your reaction. It's an instinct you can overcome.
7. Know That You Still Love Your Partner
You're both upset and confused, but that doesn't mean you can't be hurt and that you both don't want to do this to each other. You can have a row and still ask what they want to make for dinner.
8. You Cannot Win An Argument
Arguments are not made over points of life that you can win or lose, they're meant for you to discuss a topic one or both of you want to bring up. Throw the idea out of your head that you "win" if you get your way, everything requires a compromise that's how this works.
9. Be Prepared to Admit When You're Wrong
Your feelings and emotions, memories and preferences are all so immediate to you that you always feel you're "in the right" when you're planning how you want to start a conversation, but there are so many other factors involved that you may not be aware of.
10. Arguing is Normal
Serious relationships aren't one size fits all, but conflicts definitely occur as much as any other less-than-sexy topic. We accept the less-fun with the huge gains, because that's what makes relationships great.
