How to Diffuse an Argument in Your Committed, Long-Term Relationship

Some people labor under the misconception that committed, long-term relationships are immune to big arguments or fights. But nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, familiarity breeds contempt, as the saying goes. This means that, often times, the longer you’re with someone, the harder it is to deal with that person’s little quirks without some kind of argument. And most of those fights are petty, useless, and pointless. So, here are a few methods to diffusing an argument in a long-term relationship. 

Sleep On It

Some people say don’t go to bed angry. But, honestly, you might be fighting BECAUSE both of you are tired and taking it out on the other. Adulthood comes with stress and exhaustion. So, you might not be directly mad at your sweetheart. You both may just need some sleep before you say something you’ll regret. Sleep on it. Get comfortable on your organic mattresses and catch some deep shut-eye. If the argument was petty and pointless, you’ll feel better in the a.m.

Argue in the Buff

When you and your love feel an argument coming on, strip. It’s hard to argue when someone else’s nakedness is staring you in the face. You might crack up, hop on the chance to be intimate, or just decide the argument topic is too ridiculous to broach. 

Look at Yourself from the Other Person’s Perspective

What are you really like? If your sweetheart constantly brings up the same flaws about you, then maybe it’s time to look at yourself from their perspective. Think about what you say before you say it. And aim to delve deeper into an actual conversation, instead of erupting in a stream of words that could be a detriment to your relationship. 

Try to Remember What the Argument Was About

Often times, couples get so caught up in yelling and bickering that they forget what the argument was about in the first place. If you’ve been arguing for so long that you can no longer pinpoint the cause, it’s time to drop it. Walk away, give yourself time to collect your thoughts, and calm down. 

Hug It Out

If you feel the urge to start an argument, hug it out instead. Breathe in your sweetheart’s scent, linger in their embrace, and feel yourself relax. Try to remember that you love them, want them around, and have no reason to fight in the first place. 

This article isn’t saying that people long-term relationships don’t have problems or reasons to argue, because they do. However, 9 times out of 10, couples argue over things that shouldn’t have been argued about in the first place. So, if you ever find yourself trying to diffuse an argument before it starts with your long-time honey, take the aforementioned advice to heart.