Gottman in his book wrote the:

Five Steps to Resolving Conflict:

1. Soften your start-up.
2. Learn to make and receive repair attempts.
3. Soothe yourself and each other.
4. Compromise.
5. Process any grievances so that they don’t linger.

I think these steps are key to resolving conflict. I think we need to try to do all these tips to the fullest to be able to truly resolve conflicts in our marriage. I think its hard to break down a conflict so I’m grateful for these 5 reached and studied steps that help it become a little easier.

I think forgiveness is another key in a good healthy marriage. I think sometimes as humans we act out or may do something that will hurt our spouse. But we need to remember to work through the problem and forgive them. To hold a grudge against them isn’t going to help improve your marriage its going to make things harder. I think even forgive them for the small things can make it easier to forgive when things may be more complicated. I also think with forgiveness we need to make sure we aren’t losing ourselves. I think sometimes we forgive to quickly when we still need to work to revolve the real issues.

I really reflected a lot on this quote from Elder Robbins Agency and Anger article: “The family is also Satan’s primary target. He is waging war on the family. One of his schemes is the subtle and cunning way he has of sneaking behind enemy lines and entering our very homes and lives. He damages and often destroys families within the walls of their own homes. His strategy is to stir up anger between family members.” I think sometimes we forget how sneaky Satan is. He is trying to ruin families and marriages because he can never have one. That’s why we need to always be on guard and work to protect our family unit. There is nothing more important than keeping our family strong. I think when we strengthen our home, we can strengthen others around us.