Good day, landlord. It is my hope that my response will prove beneficial to you.
Indeed, it is not uncommon for couples to engage in frequent arguments, particularly during the initial stages of a relationship. It is essential to gain an understanding of the four stages of a relationship and to learn to differentiate between positions and needs during conflicts. Additionally, it is crucial to develop effective strategies for managing emotional responses when they arise. By doing so, individuals can avoid being overwhelmed by arguments and can instead focus on fostering a harmonious and intimate relationship.
The following section will present an overview of the four stages of a relationship.
The development of an intimate relationship typically progresses through four distinct stages, each with its own distinctive characteristics and potential risks.
The initial period of passion is characterised by intense feelings of attachment and attraction.
The passion period represents the initial phase of intimacy and is the period during which it is most probable that the relationship will evolve into a marriage of convenience. During this period, individuals tend to perceive only positive qualities in their partner and are driven to temporarily present themselves as the ideal lover in their partner's eyes. Despite this, the initial feelings of happiness are merely the result of dopamine-induced euphoria and typically last for a maximum of one year. Consequently, the initial stages of intimacy are inherently transient and insufficient to sustain a long-lasting and fulfilling marriage. Following this, the relationship progresses into a period of adjustment.
The second stage is the period of adjustment.
2. The period of adjustment
The period of adjustment, that is, the conflict stage of the development of intimacy, is a period during which all emotional problems emerge. During this period, passion gradually diminishes, interpersonal issues become apparent, romantic ideals are confronted with reality, and the other person's behavior shifts from being liked to being disliked, thereby challenging the intimacy.
Additionally, during this period, each individual requires an increasing amount of independent time, and the level of dependence between the two parties may diminish.
The two partners have revealed their respective shortcomings. At this juncture, if they both desire change in the other person and the other person also hopes for change from them, it is easy to trigger conflicts and contradictions, which may even lead to a breakup.
The respective shortcomings of the two partners have been revealed. If they perceive irreconcilable conflicts, they may seek to change the other person, and the other person may similarly desire change. This can result in the triggering of conflicts and contradictions, which may ultimately lead to a breakup.
Consequently, the period of adjustment represents the most challenging stage in a relationship.
The introspective period is the third stage of relationship development.
3. Introspection period
Once a relationship has survived the initial trial period, it is likely to enter a phase of introspection. This phase marks the beginning of self-reflection, whereby the focus shifts from the other person's problems to an examination of one's own internal patterns and issues. This includes gaining insight into one's own internal patterns, understanding one's role and responsibility in intimate relationships, and contemplating the potential for personal growth and change. This period is crucial for both personal growth and the evolution of the relationship.
The fourth stage is the enlightenment period.
4. Enlightenment period
This stage is also referred to as the "enlightenment stage," during which the two partners begin to connect with each other on a spiritual level. At this stage, individuals learn to embrace each other with love and demonstrate willingness to fully accept their own childhood shadows and embrace their inner child. As a result, the intimate relationship progresses to a higher and deeper stage.
This stage is also referred to as the "enlightenment stage," during which the two partners begin to connect with each other on a spiritual level. At this juncture, they are finally able to embrace each other with love and the other partner is willing to fully accept their own childhood shadows and learn to embrace their inner child. As a result, the intimacy enters a higher and deeper stage, which is the state of deep intimacy that is the focus of this discussion.
It is important to note that not all relationships have the capacity to reach this level of understanding. It is a challenging process, but it is essential for partners to work towards this direction in order to move forward together.
An understanding of the stages of growth in an intimate relationship reveals that encountering problems and conflicts is an inevitable aspect of such a relationship. Therefore, the key is not to avoid conflicts but to gain a deeper understanding of each other through conflicts and to solve problems effectively. After both parties have the ability to solve problems, it is a wiser choice to enter into marriage because even though love and marriage will also encounter a period of adjustment, the situation in marriage will be much more complicated.
Indeed, when couples transition from the passionate phase of romantic love to the period of constant conflict, the most significant shift is that the differences that previously seemed inconsequential in the heat of the moment become highly salient. To illustrate, the example you provided pertains to the question of whether to brush one's teeth before eating gum.
Indeed, when couples transition from the passionate period of being in love to the period of constant arguments, the biggest change is that the differences that seemed inconsequential in the heat of passion become very obvious. For example, the following seemingly trivial matters often become the source of intense conflict: whether to brush one's teeth before eating chewing gum or whether one can eat chewing gum without brushing one's teeth, how to squeeze toothpaste correctly, whether the toilet seat should be put down after use, whether the hair in the bathroom is cleaned in time, who does the dishes and who cooks. These seemingly trivial matters can become the source of endless arguments, which can ultimately harm the relationship. In fact, many couples break up because of this.
The question thus arises as to how these conflicts can be resolved.
The question thus arises as to how these conflicts can be resolved.
I will now present a tool for distinguishing between positions and needs. This tool can assist in focusing on the common interests and needs of the two parties involved, rather than on the question of who is right and who is wrong.
I will now present a tool for distinguishing between positions and needs. This tool can assist in focusing on the common interests and needs of the two parties involved, rather than on the question of who is right and who is wrong.
In point of fact, our respective stances can be likened to the extremities of two icebergs that have risen above the surface of the water. While they may seem irreconcilable, in truth, our interests and needs are intricately intertwined and demand our attention.
In point of fact, our respective stances can be likened to the extremities of two icebergs that have risen above the surface of the water. While they may seem irreconcilable, in truth, our interests and needs are intricately intertwined and demand our attention.
It can be reasonably assumed that, regardless of how intractable the other party may appear to be, an understanding of their underlying needs may facilitate the emergence of a mutually acceptable solution.
To illustrate, the woman is angry because the man immediately checks his phone when he arrives home. It appears that the woman is displeased with the man checking his phone, yet her actual need is for the man to dedicate more time to her, to pay closer attention to her, and to respond to her in a more engaged manner.
If the man solely considers the other person's perspective at this juncture and emphasizes that he is checking his phone because he is occupied with work-related tasks, the two individuals may become engaged in a dispute regarding the relative merits of their respective positions.
If the man is able to discern the woman's needs at this juncture and respond in a direct manner, stating, "Madam, I have some pressing matters to attend to, but it will only require approximately half an hour. Once I have concluded, I will engage in discourse with you, if that is agreeable?" it is probable that the conflict will rapidly dissipate.
Naturally, if the woman can articulate her needs in a clear and assertive manner, for instance, "Dear, you've been looking at your phone since you got home, and I feel somewhat neglected. Could you please talk to me now? I require your undivided attention,"
Thus, when the needs of the other person are identified and met, many conflicts can be averted.
Furthermore, it is essential to learn how to cope with the narrowing effect when experiencing emotional distress.
The narrowing effect refers to the phenomenon whereby an individual's focus narrows significantly when they are emotionally aroused, particularly when experiencing fear or anger. This narrowing of focus leads to a narrowing of the individual's field of vision and perception, which in turn allows their immediate inner needs to take precedence over their long-term goals. This can manifest as a tendency to act on impulse and engage in behaviours that may be detrimental to their long-term wellbeing.
Neurophysiologists have discovered that when an individual is in a narrowing state, their body secretes specific chemicals that drive them to express their anger. In other words, individuals under the narrowing effect find it challenging to suppress all their impulses, resulting in a loss of control over their physical and emotional responses. Attempting to resist or reason with such individuals is likely to be ineffective.
Consequently, when an individual is experiencing a high level of anger, attempting to reason with them is unlikely to be effective. In the absence of emotional resolution, those who persist in attempting to reason with such individuals may appear even more irritating.
In light of the aforementioned considerations, what course of action would be most prudent at this juncture?
In order to achieve this, it is necessary to undertake two distinct actions.
1. Maintaining awareness is the most effective method for regulating emotions. It is essential to be conscious of one's emotional state in order to avoid impulsive actions that may result in regret. How, then, can one maintain self-awareness?
One of the simplest methods for relaxation is to focus on one's breathing. When emotions begin to intensify and a narrow state of mind is experienced, the breathing rate typically increases. At this juncture, it is beneficial to take a few minutes to calm the breathing and identify the areas of the body that are tense. This approach is one of the most direct and effective ways to achieve relaxation.
2. It is advisable to be self-aware and to ascertain whether the effect is beneficial or detrimental. If there is no opportunity to make urgent adjustments, it is recommended to inform the other person directly that one is experiencing emotional distress and may require a brief period of time to regain composure.
"Alternatively, one might indicate a need to use the restroom or locate a suitable place to calm down, thereby informing the other person of one's need and allowing them to offer assistance if they so desire.
In such instances, it is advisable to adopt a state of heightened self-awareness and to identify the specific emotional state one is currently experiencing. This can be achieved by paying attention to one's breathing, as rapid breathing is a common indicator of emotional distress. Once the emotional state has been identified, it is possible to take action to regulate one's emotions. This may entail directly communicating to the other person that one is experiencing a heightened emotional state and that some time is needed to calm down. This approach can also be used in instances where the other person is experiencing a narrow state.
This can be applied to a situation with an individual who is experiencing a narrow state.
1. It is essential to actively listen in order to comprehend the genuine requirements of the other person.
If one can discern the emotional state of the other party and respond to it in a timely manner, before or during a conflict, the majority of the problem has already been resolved. During this process, it is crucial to learn to actively listen. How, then, do we listen?
When listening, it is important to observe the other person's body language and expressions, to empathize with their emotions, and to comprehend their emotional state at that moment. If one can delve deeper and grasp the underlying reasons for the other person's emotional state and identify their inner needs, one can then utilize the previously mentioned method of distinguishing between positions and needs to address the situation effectively.
2. It is essential to control the rhythm of the interaction, initially appealing to the emotional state of the other person, and subsequently addressing the logical aspects of the situation.
It is only through the initial management of the other person's emotions that the potential for rational discourse can be realised. Given that individuals perceive time to slow down when they are in the narrowing effect, it is imperative not to rush when addressing emotional issues. Instead, sufficient time and patience should be allocated to listening, or alternatively, emotions can be gradually released through the use of effective questioning.
Once the emotional state has stabilized, the resolution of the problem will be expedited.
When we are able to think in a lateral manner, cease to be constrained by our own preconceptions, and refrain from debating the merits of right and wrong, we are able to perceive the underlying needs of the other person. Should you be genuinely willing to satisfy the other person's needs with profound affection and they, in turn, be willing to acknowledge your needs and meet them, then you have attained a comprehension of the true meaning of happiness and your intimate relationship will continue to flourish.
I extend my best wishes to you.
Comments
I can see how frustrating this situation is for you. It seems like there's a communication gap between you two that needs addressing.
Maybe it's time to have an honest conversation about personal hygiene and why it matters so much to you.
It sounds like both of you might benefit from discussing how comments are perceived and the intentions behind them.
Sometimes it feels like no matter what we say, it comes out wrong. I wonder if he feels attacked when you're just trying to help.
Perhaps focusing on your feelings rather than his actions could help him understand where you're coming from without feeling criticized.