Good day, landlord. I hope my response proves useful to you.
It is not uncommon for couples to engage in frequent arguments, particularly during the initial stages of a relationship. It is essential to grasp the four stages of a relationship and to differentiate between positions and needs in conflicts. This enables us to navigate emotional entanglements effectively and to avoid being sidetracked by arguments, thereby achieving a harmonious and fulfilling intimate relationship.
We will now examine the four stages of a relationship.
The development of an intimate relationship typically progresses through four stages, each with distinct characteristics and potential risks.
The initial period of passion.
The passion period represents the initial stage of intimacy, during which it is most probable that the relationship will evolve into a marriage of convenience. During this phase, individuals tend to perceive only positive attributes in their partner and are driven to temporarily present themselves as the ideal lover in their partner's eyes. Despite this positive sentiment, it is merely a dopamine-induced effect that can last for approximately three to six months, or at most one year. Consequently, the positive feelings experienced during this stage are transient and insufficient to sustain a long-lasting and happy marriage. Following this, the relationship progresses to the period of adjustment.
The second stage is the adjustment period.
2. The period of adjustment.
The period of adjustment, that is, the conflict stage of the development of intimacy, is a period when all emotional problems emerge. During this period, passion has diminished, issues between partners have become apparent, our idealised vision of love has been confronted with reality, and the other person has changed from someone we like to someone we dislike, thus challenging the intimacy.
It is also during this period that each party requires an increasing amount of independent time, with a corresponding reduction in dependence.
You have identified areas for improvement in your respective approaches. If you believe that these differences are irreconcilable and that the other party should change, and if the other party also expects you to change, it is easy to create conflict and contradictions, which may ultimately result in a breakdown in the relationship.
You have identified your respective shortcomings. If you believe that these conflicts are irreconcilable, you may be inclined to change the other person, and the other person may also desire a change in you. This can easily result in the triggering of conflicts and contradictions, which may ultimately lead to a breakup.
It is therefore evident that the period of adjustment represents the most challenging stage in a relationship.
The third stage is the introspective period.
3. Introspection period.
Once a relationship has survived the initial trial period, it is likely to enter a phase of introspection. This is the beginning of a process 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 may include gaining insight into one's own internal patterns, understanding one's role and responsibility in intimate relationships, and exploring one's capacity for change. This period is crucial for personal growth and relationship reconstruction.
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, we finally learn 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.
This stage is also referred to as the enlightenment stage, during which the two partners begin to connect on a spiritual level. At this stage, we learn to embrace each other with love, and the other person is willing to fully accept their own childhood experiences and embrace their inner child. As a result, the level of intimacy reaches a higher and deeper state, which is the level of intimacy we are discussing.
It is important to note that not all relationships have reached this level of maturity. While it is not an easy process, it is essential for both partners to work towards this direction in order to move forward together.
Understanding the stages of intimacy will help you understand that problems and conflicts are inevitable in a relationship. The key is not to avoid conflicts, but to learn how to resolve them. It is prudent to enter into a marriage only after both partners have the ability to resolve problems, because even though relationships and marriages both have a period of adjustment, the situation in marriage is much more complicated.
Indeed, when couples transition from the passionate period of being in love to the period of constant arguments, they often find that the differences that seemed inconsequential in the heat of passion become very noticeable. For example, they may find that seemingly trivial issues, such as how to squeeze toothpaste or whether the toilet seat should be up or down, become significant sources of conflict.
As relationships progress from the infatuated stage to a more contentious phase, the differences that were previously overlooked become more apparent. Minor issues, such as toothpaste application, toilet seat usage, bathroom hygiene, and domestic chores, can escalate into significant disagreements. Prolonged conflict over such trivial matters can severely damage the relationship and lead to its dissolution.
How, then, should these conflicts be resolved?
How can these conflicts be resolved?
I would like to present to you a tool which I believe will be of benefit in this situation. It is a tool which allows one to distinguish between positions and needs. I am confident that using this tool will help you to focus on the interests and needs that the two people have in common, rather than on the issue of whose position is right and whose is wrong.
I would like to present a tool which I believe will be of benefit to you. It is a method of distinguishing between positions and needs. I am confident that this tool will help you to focus on the interests and needs that the two people have in common, rather than on the issue of whose position is right and whose is wrong.
In fact, the positions of both parties are akin to the tips of two icebergs that have emerged above the water. They may seem irreconcilable, but in reality, their interests and needs are intertwined and require our attention.
In fact, the positions of both parties are akin to the tips of two icebergs that have emerged above the water. They may seem irreconcilable, but in reality, their interests and needs are intertwined and require our attention.
It is often the case that, despite initial appearances, there is a way to find common ground and reach a mutually beneficial solution. By understanding the underlying needs of the other party, it becomes possible to identify a path forward that is satisfactory for all parties involved.
To illustrate, consider a scenario where one partner becomes angry when the other immediately checks their phone as soon as they arrive home. While the angry partner may appear to be unhappy about the other person checking their phone, their underlying need is for the other person to spend more time with them, pay more attention, and respond to them.
If the individual viewing the phone only acknowledges the other person's perspective and asserts that they are on the phone because they are working, a dispute may arise regarding whose position is valid.
If the individual viewing the phone at this time can identify the other person's needs and respond promptly, stating, "I have some urgent work to attend to, but it will only take approximately 30 minutes. After I'm done, I'll be available for a discussion, if you'd like," I believe the conflict will immediately be resolved.
It would be beneficial for the agitated party to express their needs in a clear and direct manner. For example, "Dear, you've been on your phone since you got home, and I feel a bit lost. Can you talk to me now? I need you to pay more attention to me."
This allows us to identify and meet each other's needs, which helps to prevent conflict.
Furthermore, it is important to learn how to deal with the narrowing effect when emotions are running high.
The narrowing effect refers to the fact that when an individual is under the influence of intense emotions (such as fear or anger), their focus narrows significantly, leading to a tendency to fixate on a specific detail or point. This narrowing of the field of vision and perception can result in an inclination to act on immediate inner needs, potentially leading to impulsive behaviors that may not align with long-term goals.
Neurophysiologists have discovered that when an individual is in a narrowing state, their body secretes specific chemicals that drive them to express anger. In other words, people under the narrowing effect find it challenging to resist all the impulses in front of them, and are controlled by their physical and emotional instincts. Attempting to resist and restrain using reason is likely to be counterproductive.
It is therefore evident that when we are particularly angry, attempting to reason with the other party will often prove ineffective. Furthermore, if emotional issues remain unresolved, those who attempt to reason with the other party may even appear more irritating.
What is the recommended course of action at this juncture?
In order to achieve this, we must undertake two key actions:
1. Stay aware: The most effective way to regulate emotions is to remain conscious of them, to understand your emotional state, and thereby avoid impulsive actions that you will regret. How can you maintain self-awareness?
One simple method is to focus on your breathing. When emotions start to rise and you begin to feel overwhelmed, your breathing will typically become rapid. At this point, take a few minutes to calm your breathing and identify where your body is feeling tense. This is an effective way to relax.
2. Cautionary Statement: If you are self-aware and perceive that the situation is not optimal, or there is no opportunity to make immediate adjustments, you may choose to inform the other party directly, "I am experiencing some emotional distress and may require a brief period to compose myself. Could you kindly allow me a few minutes to regroup?"
"Alternatively, you may indicate that you require a moment to use the restroom or to collect your thoughts in a separate space. This will inform the other party and provide you with a brief opportunity to regroup."
This approach can also be applied to other individuals who may be experiencing a narrow state.
1. Listen actively to gain a clear understanding of the other person's actual needs.
If you can identify and respond to the other person's emotions before or during a conflict, you can resolve the majority of the issue. During this process, it is important to learn to actively listen. How do we listen?
When listening, observe the other person's body language and expressions, attempt to discern their emotions, and comprehend their emotional state at that time. If you can delve deeper and ascertain the underlying reasons for their emotional state and identify their inner needs, you can then utilize the previously mentioned method of distinguishing between positions and needs to address the situation effectively.
2. Establish control over the pace of the interaction by initially focusing on emotional appeal, then transitioning to logical reasoning.
It is only by first addressing the other person's emotions that reasoning can become a reality. Given that people in a narrowing effect will perceive time as slowing down, it is important not to rush when dealing with emotions. Instead, sufficient time and patience should be allocated to listening, or to gradually releasing the emotions of the other person through effective questioning.
Once emotions have subsided, problems will be resolved in a timely manner.
When we can think outside the box, stop being limited by our own positions, and stop arguing about right and wrong, we can look beyond the surface and see the other person's real needs. If you are truly willing to satisfy the other person's needs with deep affection, and the other person is also willing to see your needs and satisfy your needs, then you have already understood the true meaning of happiness, and your intimate relationship will continue to improve.
Love is a pure emotion, while relationships require management and nurturing. May you both continue to grow in your relationship, support each other, nourish each other, and become happier and happier!
Comments
I feel like we've shared something truly special, a bond that has crossed so many boundaries. She was there for me when no one else was, and I can't imagine my life without her. Despite all the differences between us, from personality to cultural background, it's as if our hearts speak the same language. Yet, the road hasn't been easy. We've had our share of ups and downs, moments where we questioned everything. But every time we tried to walk away, we found ourselves coming back, drawn by the depth of what we have. Now, I'm at a loss on how to navigate this path forward, hoping to find a way to cherish what we have while learning to resolve conflicts better.
Looking back on the past two years, I realize that our relationship is built on more than just love; it's about resilience and mutual support. Even with all the challenges, I know deep down that she's the one who understands me the most. The key might be in communication. If we can learn to talk through our issues instead of letting them fester, maybe we can find common ground. It's not just about avoiding fights but understanding each other's perspectives and being patient. I want to work on this, to make sure we can grow together and keep the connection strong, no matter what comes our way.
Our journey together has been a rollercoaster, filled with intense highs and lows. Through it all, I've come to see that the strength of our relationship lies in our ability to overcome. Every argument, every misunderstanding, has taught us something valuable. Moving forward, I think it's important to focus on the positive aspects of our relationship and build from there. Perhaps we could set aside time to reconnect, to remind ourselves why we fell in love in the first place. By doing so, we might find the balance we need to move forward harmoniously, cherishing the moments of joy while learning to handle the tough times with grace.