How to resolve conflict in a relationship and know when its time to break up

How to Resolve Conflict in Your Relationship
Every relationship has conflict, whether you are newly dating, engaged, or together as husband and wife. Even those in the best of relationships argue, but their secret is they know how to argue healthily. Rather than trying to avoid arguments, you and your partner should discuss relationships as they happen. Avoiding conflict leads to anger and resentment that will eventually spill over and lead to a huge argument that has the potential to end a relationship.

It is best not to discuss relationship issues when you are angry. In the heat of the moment, things will be said that you do not necessarily mean, but that will certainly stick in your partner's brain long after the argument has ended and you have apologized. When discussing the problem at hand, say what is on your mind, but do not dominate the conversation. Not allowing your partner to speak will only cause him or her to become angrier. Keep your voice low. When you shout or scream in an argument, your volume overrides your message. Stick to the topic at hand. Bringing up other issues will cause both partners to go on the defensive rather, instead of resolving one conflict per discussion.

How to Know When It's Time to Break Up
All things must come to an end, including relationships. How can you be sure that it is time to break things off? Though relationships can be saved with counselling and/or hard work in some cases, there are some relationships that cannot be repaired or saved.

1. Constant fighting.
If you and your partner spend more time arguing than doing anything else, it is time to move on. Period.

2. You have grown apart.
Everyone changes over time, but if you and your partner have grown apart instead of growing together, the relationship is over.

3. Flirting with others.
Briefly checking out the cute cashier at the grocery store is one thing. But when you find yourself checking out every attractive member of the opposite sex and wondering what a relationship with them would be like, you have already checked out of the relationship. Breaking up with your partner is now just a necessary formality.

4. The trust is gone.
Trust is what good relationships are built upon. If you cannot trust your partner, or vice versa, it would be better for both of you to break up. When trust is gone, suspicion comes into play and arguing becomes more frequent.