Marriage is an expedition filled with beautiful moments, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Countless couples come across ongoing conflict, and it can be perplexing to know how to address it. If you're feeling caught in your relationship, keep in mind that you're not alone. In this post, we'll scrutinize some ordinary issues that give rise to ongoing tension and offer practical solutions to help you move ahead with your spouse.

Primarily, it's imperative to grasp the underlying predicaments that may be causing conflict in your relationship. Common issues comprise pessimistic self-image, dichotomous thinking, trepidation of abandonment, lack of childhood-formed trust, emotional evasion, shame and guilt, and others. If any of these resonate with you, understand that you're not alone and that there are steps you can take to work through these predicaments with your spouse.

Efficient communication is vital to resolving ongoing conflict in your marriage. However, even if you possess good communication abilities, it can still be challenging to settle predicaments.

Practical solutions to help you address communication problems:

• Practice active listening: When your spouse speaks, make sure you're entirely present and listen with the intention to understand, not to reply.
• Evade making assumptions: If you're uncertain about what your spouse means, ask clarifying questions to deepen your understanding.
• Use “I” statements: Speak from your own experience and feelings rather than assuming anything about your spouse.
• Eliminate distractions: Turn off your phone, move to a quiet space, and give your undivided attention to your spouse.
• Practice empathy: Endeavor to perceive things from your spouse's perspective and put yourself in their shoes.
• Validate your spouse's feelings: Even if you don't concur with their viewpoint, acknowledge that their feelings are authentic and essential.
• Take responsibility: If you've said or done something hurtful, apologize and take accountability for your actions.
• Use a softer tone: Practice speaking in a calm and gentle tone, even when discussing difficult topics.
• Evade criticism: Focus on the behavior or situation, rather than criticizing your spouse's character.
• Take turns: Allow each other the opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings.

Remember that resolving any ongoing conflict in your marriage entails effort and dedication from both partners.

Strategies you can use to strengthen your relationship:

• Set clear boundaries: Discuss and establish clear boundaries with your spouse to ensure that both of you feel respected and valued.
• Practice forgiveness: Let go of past hurts and forgive your spouse for any mistakes they may have made. Holding onto resentment will only harm your relationship in the long run.
• Work as a team: Remember that you and your spouse are on the same team. When facing a challenge, collaborate to find a solution that benefits both of you.
• Seek outside help: Sometimes, resolving conflict in a marriage often requires outside help. Consider seeking the guidance of a professional to work through issues together.
• Take care of yourself: Remember to take care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally. When you feel your best, you'll be better equipped to handle life’s challenges and relationship struggles.

Phew! That was a lot! If you are still reading, Kudos! You are clearly committed to seeing the change your marriage needs. Congratulate yourself and express gratitude to God for helping you possess that resolution.

As we conclude, I want to remind you that even though resolving ongoing conflict in your marriage can be a challenging journey, there is always hope for a better future. Whether you're working on this alone or with your spouse, recognize that any effort you put in can lead to a significant improvement in your relationship