Open, honest communication is one of the characteristics of a healthy, successful relationship. The important thing to remember is that conflict is inevitable in relationships. Naturally, there are differences between individuals in a couple. The key is in how you manage those differences
In healthy relationships, partners seek mutually satisfactory resolutions to conflicts. When differences come up, try to see the situation from your partner’s perspective. Ask yourself: Is it more important to be right, or more important to be intimate? Sometimes this will mean agreeing to disagree and sometimes this will mean compromising. It is important to admit when you are wrong or when you have hurt your partner. This often involves an apology. Try not to make excuses for your own or your partner’s actions. Each of you needs to acknowledge and state your needs and desires. It means treating your needs and desires and your partner’s needs and desires with equal regard and respect.
It can feel alienating when you are at odds with your partner. I hear many couples state: “We’re so different. We don’t agree on anything.” Keep in mind that each of you should have an equal say, although there may be times when one of you may have a greater say because of more information or greater expertise in a specific area. Nevertheless, you still need to treat each other with respect and communicate your feelings and your ideas openly and honestly. Be mindful to have good will toward your partner and treat your partner as a friend, not an enemy even though you may be at odds. You need to see yourself as part of a couple, part of a team, which is stronger together than either would be alone. Remember that no issue is more important than the relationship.