Compromise forms the building block upon which the foundations of a relationship are built. It is a fundamental, core attribute that every relationship requires to be successful, and the ability to compromise is the glue that holds together the many different parts of any relationship by ensuring that they work as a whole.
Being able to compromise represents maturity of thought and action. It illustrates an ability to change the parameters of an existing problem by working together to create a solution both parties will be happy with. It’s very similar to the act of negotiation, whereby each party must end up by feeling some gain, not loss.
Compromise is the art of acknowledging that the other person, with their unique character traits and ways of doing things, might also be right. It affirms the relationship is more important than one or more differences of opinion. In reality there is no marriage or partnership in which both sides see eye to eye on everything.
Meeting Each Other Halfway
Meeting others halfway is an essential part of all relationships if they are to be sustainable. Most couples, over time, learn to become sensitive and aware of each other’s preferences and dislikes — and we all want to avoid conflict.
It is very important to be clear about what you want and why you want it. It doesn’t mean you will get it, but it does mean that you will both be completely clear on what is in your mind and there are no misunderstandings at this stage.
Your wedding is similar to other situations where two people don’t necessarily agree to all points under discussion. But they then come together to learn to negotiate a solution, accept the revised situation and move on.
The key here is to not resent the other person’s views but to negotiate a position whereby, with some give and take, both parties come away satisfied.
Quick Tips:
- Make your case for what you would like and why.
- The most important thing to remember is that when you have reached a compromise, accept the new situation. Don’t keep going back to what you initially wanted.
- Don’t harbour resentment towards your partner once a decision has been made.
- Go for a win-win situation so that everyone is happy.
Guest post by Carole Spiers, Love and Relationship Expert
Image from Photostories