conflict resolution

Tip: Aim for five positive interactions for every negative one. Research shows thriving couples have a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions—even during conflict. This includes small things: Next time you’re together, notice how often your interactions are positive vs. critical or neutral. Make a conscious effort to appreciate, affirm, and show affection more …

Tip: Create a recurring event that’s just for you two. Life gets busy. A weekly ritual—something simple and consistent—can create powerful bonding time. This might be: The key is consistency. This ritual becomes a touchpoint in your week, something to look forward to. For dating couples, it builds anticipation and shared memory. For married couples, …

Tip: Spend a night learning about your partner’s world. Relationship expert Dr. John Gottman coined the term Love Map: it’s your mental map of your partner’s inner world—hopes, fears, people they love, things that stress or excite them. Plan a date night with one goal: updating your love maps. Ask fun and meaningful questions like: Even …

Tip: When conflict starts, use humor or kindness to reset tension. Every couple argues—but healthy couples know how to “repair” before things spiral. A repair attempt is a way to cool things down mid-conflict. This might look like: You’re not ignoring the issue; you’re protecting your connection while working through it. If you’re dating, now is the …