Conflict Resolution for Conflict Avoiders | Ep. 655

Conflict in marriage is inevitable: it’s how you handle it that matters most. But what about couples who really never fight? What happens to conflict that is never addressed and only stays under the surface? Does it ever really go away? 

Listen today to learn better ways to handle the issues you don’t know how to deal with.  

We pray this episode is helpful for you and your marriage. 

Episode highlights include: 

• Tips to initiate a hard conversation you’ve been avoiding

• How to stay grounded when you want to shut down 

• How conflict can actually lead to better intimacy and connection

• Helpful nonconfrontational ways to broach difficult topics 

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*Music for this podcast is created by Noah Copeland. Check him out here! 

Couples Conversation Guide: 

Main takeaway: Dealing with the important issues together paves the way for true peace, and learning effective conflict solving skills is a win for your marriage. 

Questions to Discuss: 

1. Some skills mentioned are: Intentionality - set up a good time to talk, use “I” statements, do not blame your spouse, focus on what you would like to achieve together through the conversation. Pick the one that would help you the most. 

2. What is one easy issue you can tackle together to practice better resolution skills? Focus on using your chosen skill. 

QUOTES 

• If a couple said they never had conflict, I would think they’re not being completely honest with each other. - Dr. Kim Kimberling 

• I think the more you fear conflict, the less you’re able to resolve it. - Lindsay Few 

• We want to equip couples to handle it in a healthy way. - Lindsay Few 

• Conflict is not bad in itself. It’s how we handle conflict. - Dr. Kim Kimberling 

• Yes, we want peace in our homes. But you can’t have it if you ignore things that need to be dealt with.  - Dr. Kim Kimberling 

• It’s ok if you get stuck, just don’t stay stuck. - Dr. Kim Kimberling 

MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:  

• Do you want a better friendship with your spouse? Build your friendship with the 5 Day Friendship Challenge. 

•  Have you lost the connection you once had? Rebuild friendship with your spouse using the 5 Day Rebuilding Friendship Challenge.

•  Our ministry is made possibly ONLY through our generous donors. Plus, they get each month’s new marriage resource automatically, as well as some other exclusive perks! Learn more about Marriage Changers Membership here. 

• Sign up for Dr. Kim’s Marriage Multiplier email for quick weekly marriage tips!