Everyone knows that you have to compromise in any relationship, but how one goes about compromising is the question. Is it simply that you give in because you shy away from conflict or an argument ensued, making it a win-lose situation? Or, do you talk about the situation and come to a decision where both of you get satisfied in some way…making it a win-win? There are many ways we compromise in relationships and compromise doesn’t mean that you have to lose every time.

When two people respect each other, they are honoring their rights as human beings. If one usually feels slighted and discontent with the outcome, then someone is taking advantage, while the other is being disrespected and not standing up for themselves. On occasion, there are always going to be two points-of-view in every relationship. How the conflict gets handled is what makes all the difference.

First and foremost, talk…not yell, criticize, or belittle…talk. Each one tells their side of the story, and then, with an open mind, both of you figure out how to make it work.

For instance, one of you enjoys going out with friends, while the other is more of a home-body or has other interests. That’s okay! Figure out what works so both of you can have what you want. Make a plan: the one spends time with friends on Fridays, while Saturdays are always date-night. Neither of you get exactly what you want, but you can be happy with the outcome because your mate was willing to compromise. No one had to lose. Other issues could be how one of you spends money, cleans, drives, or even how you argue. Once again, talk and make a plan!

People just feel better when they know that they have been heard and that there is empathy for their postion. No one likes to feel that they don't matter. Keep this in mind each and every time you are faced with an issue and you will become a better person, a better mate, and a better friend. As the golden rule tells us, treat others as you want to be treated. That rule has been around for a long, long time...and there's a good reason for it.

Issues are never resolved until both of you make a vow to respect and value the other person…in their time, their values, and in life.

To read more on dating, relationships, family and friends, check out my book, Loving with Purpose.

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Author's Bio: 

KIMBERLY MITCHELL is the author of Loving with Purpose and writer of articles for such venues as her blog, LovingwithPurpose.org, EzineArticles.com, and other websites offering advice. As an entrepreneurial relationship contributor and a student of life, she believes that good or bad, personal experience is the best teacher.

Her history of talents range from producing and presenting instructional material and business solutions for business leaders, including management and leadership courses, personal development, diversity, and technical training, to website creation and graphic design of company newsletters, brochures, websites, and educational material. Her work in human resources, along with her technical ability, provided her opportunities to combine those skills, expanding her efforts to achieve success personally and professionally.

Today, Kim has taken the long road of putting what she knows to paper. She has received so much more from the experience than she ever expected and she's thankful for the opportunity to contribute. All she wants is to see palpable change in the way people treat each other...by living and loving with purpose.

Kim lives in Ohio with her husband, along with other family members and friends. For more information about relationships, please visit http://www.LovingwithPurpose.org.