CONFLICT ETIQUETTE

Happy Spring to everyone! During this time of the year, many couples get together and decide to get married. And we are especially looking forward to the British Royal Wedding this month. Below are just a few suggestions for newly married couples or any couple, for that matter, that are interested in improving their conflict etiquette skills. 1) Do not criticize or put down one another. 2) Do not point fingers at each other. 3) Practice anger management. 4) Do not yell, scream or shout - especially in front of children. 5) Speak in respectful tones of voice. 6) Do not use negative language. Try to stay as positive as possible and try to use a sense of humor. 7) Respect and validate one another's feelings. 8) When expressing feelings, always use "I" statements. For example, "I feel uncomfortable when you raise your voice". 9) Try to minimize high technology sounds to create an environment of calmness and focus. 10) After the conflict has been resolved, give each other a hug.