How to Resolve Conflict in Relationships: 3 Proven Steps | Psychotherapist Dr. Olena Edwards

[@TheDevineFempress]

You’re absolutely right I did all of this in my marriage … I wonder about tools for dealing with a partner that accuses you of things to express their own needs … for example my partner wanted to cuddle … instead of saying that he laid in the middle of the bed and when I slept to one side … he accused me of acting weird…. Only from my opening up about feeling like he didn’t want me there because he lay in the middle of the bed did he say he did that because he wanted to cuddle …, I wanted to cuddle with him too … our wires got crossed…. We both sincerely wanted the same thing … ❤ ❤

[@harleytherapycouk]

It sounds like a challenging but insightful moment in your relationship. Miscommunication often stems from unmet needs or assumptions, and it's so encouraging that you were both able to uncover what was really going on beneath the surface. One tool that can help in situations like this is practicing Nonviolent Communication (NVC), which focuses on expressing feelings and needs without blame. For example, instead of saying, "You're acting weird," your partner could say, "I’m feeling a bit distant tonight and would love to cuddle-can we?" Similarly, sharing your own feelings and needs in the moment can help prevent misunderstandings, even if it's something as simple as, "I noticed you're in the middle of the bed; are you hoping for some closeness?" These kinds of conversations, though small, build emotional intimacy over time. It's clear you both value the connection-acknowledging and celebrating that is a wonderful foundation for working through crossed wires in the future. ❤

[@angstrom1058]

There are many ways to resolve conflicts. If the relationship is terminal, the best way I find is to walk out the door, don't look back, keep going, find someone that is compatible.

[@harleytherapycouk]

You’re absolutely right-sometimes walking away is the healthiest choice. It takes courage to recognise when a relationship isn’t serving you and to move forward toward something more aligned with your wellbeing.