Love isn’t always perfect, and relationships can be complex. While it’s true that fighting is a natural part of any relationship, it is also true that the timing of our fights can make or break the relationship.
The key to a happy relationship is not never fighting, but learning when not to fight with your partner. Timing is everything.
Don’t fight when one of you is hungry
Have you ever found yourself in a fight with your partner because you were too hungry? Hunger can put us in a bad mood, and it can be tempting to take out our frustration on our loved ones.
Our brains are wired to prioritize survival and tend to focus heavily on our survival needs when we are hungry, which leads to poor and hasty decisions. So, next time you feel a fight brewing, ask yourself if you or your partner is just plain hungry, and consider postponing it until you’ve both had a proper meal.
Avoid fighting when one of you is tired
Exhaustion can limit our cognitive function, leaving us more prone to irrational thinking and less capable of making sound decisions.
When you’re fighting with your partner, it’s important to remember that exhaustion can cloud your judgment and make it difficult to communicate effectively. If one of you is tired, it might be best to postpone the conversation until the next day.
Don’t fight when one of you is in a bad mood
We all have our off days. When you’re experiencing a bad day, it’s important to recognize that your bad mood can transfer to your partner and affect the way you communicate with them.
When you’re not in the right frame of mind, you’re more likely to interpret things as personal attacks and get defensive. This can escalate a fight, making it more difficult to find a solution. If you’re having a bad day, it may be best to wait until you feel better before engaging in an emotionally charged conversation with your partner.
Avoid fighting when you’re in public
Public fights can be embarrassing, and they put added pressure on both partners. Whether you’re at a family event or a crowded restaurant, it’s important to remember that your words and actions can affect those around you.
It’s also important to remember that fighting in public can increase the intensity of the argument. In addition, it can be challenging to find a quiet and private place to discuss your feelings in-depth. As such, it’s better to avoid fighting in public if possible.
Don’t fight when one of you is at work
Work can be stressful and demanding. When you or your partner is at work, they may not have the time or energy to focus on the argument. Furthermore, fighting during work hours can affect your performance.
It’s important to maintain a professional image, and getting heated during a disagreement with your partner can compromise that. Instead of fighting during work hours, suggest scheduling a time after work to talk.
Don’t fight when one of you is intoxicated
Alcohol can lower our inhibitions and make us more susceptible to our emotions. If you or your partner is intoxicated, you may not be able to think rationally or communicate effectively.
What begins as a small disagreement can quickly escalate into a heated argument. Additionally, alcohol-induced fights can lead to saying things you don’t mean or engaging in physical altercations. If you or your partner is under the influence, it’s best to put the conversation on hold until you’re sober.
Avoid fighting when one of you is driving
Driving requires focus and concentration. When we’re driving, our brains need to be attentive to the road and any unforeseen obstacles. Combining an argument and driving can be dangerous not only to the couple but also to others on the road.
You should avoid driving and arguing or ask your partner to stop the car safely and find a place to discuss your problem. Remember, it’s better to arrive at your destination in one piece than arrive but worse for wear from a car accident.
Don’t fight when you’re with other people
When you’re in a group, it’s essential to be considerate of others’ feelings and not to monopolize conversations.
Arguing during a social gathering or when others are present can be uncomfortable and awkward for everyone, not just the couple in question. Apart from that, everyone present can feel like they need to choose sides. So, if you have something that needs discussing, set aside some one to one time rather than fighting with others present.
Conclusion
Timing is everything when it comes to fighting with your partner. Learning when not to fight can significantly impact any relationship.
When you or your partner is hangry, tired, or have an external grip on your situation, it may be worth considering delaying the discussion to another time. Remember that finding the right time and place to have a calm and meaningful conversation with your partner can lead to a happy and healthy relationship.