By Sami Shields of ContemporaryVA
Many people mistake the act of compromise as selling-out or giving in. Compromise to them means giving up something. In actuality if you stay true to the real definition of compromise you will gain a relationship free of petty battles. You will learn how to co-exist in a loving and appreciative way. It may be a good idea to let your partner know ahead of time that you have some ideas about a certain situation, and you’d like their insight and help with it. This can help set the tone for positive, non-accusatory discussions. Agree beforehand that if at any time either partner feels angry or upset about the issue you can come back and talk about it at a later date.

Compromise is NOT easy. Ask any married person – we know! But compromising isn’t about lowering your expectations, or giving up what is important to you. It *is*, sometimes, about making a choice on the thoughts, perceptions, judgments and opinions you choose to have about the various aspects of your marriage. Such as, who does the laundry? Who disciplines the kids? Do you both work, or is there a stay-at-home parent, and if there is, who stays and who goes? Compromise is learning how to settle differences between each other.  One must sacrifice for the greater good of the relationship.  Compromise doesn’t always occur in one disagreement.  They tend to differ form each situation.  Sharing is what a partnership is all about.  Couples often think of themselves as “best friends”.  Sharing means giving of oneself to the partner.

Keep in mind that compromise is a kind of agreement that you can tweak every now and then. The main point is to identify the issue and stick to other points of a compromise. There is no need to focus on a certain agreement, because you can tweak it. Try to be open to your partner and communicate freely. Both of you will eventually feel happy if you use your diplomatic skills in resolving conflicts.

What are you currently struggling with? Let us know in the comments below or send a message here.