SPOTLIGHT MONDAY: Repairing Relationships After Conflict

What this episode covers

On today’s Spotlight Monday, we shine the light on what it takes to repair a relationship after a conflict with a partner, a close friend or a family member. According to an online article from the Gottman Institute, "Manage Conflict: The Aftermath of a Fight" (www.gottman.com/blog/manage-conflict-the-aftermath-of-a-fight/), the key to repairing an argument is to make the attempt as early as possible by talking about it. Talk about the argument and how you got there, not the topic that started the argument. This article introduced a 3-step format to help repair a conflict in a more positive way. "Step 1: Each partner has a turn to talk about what they felt. Step 2: Discuss and validate both subjective realities. Step 3: Accept responsibility; What role did you play in the fight?" Practicing this repair format can avoid turning an argument into a destructive moment in the relationship, and instead promote a successful and encouraging outcome for both. So, come ride along with us!