Don’t be afraid of conflict. Negative emotions can be good for a relationship. A study at Baylor University found that “hard” negative emotions, such as anger and contempt, helped couples instigate conflicts that ultimately led to solutions. “Soft” negative emotions, such as concern and disappointment, helped couples persevere in resolving their issues. Discuss any problems you may have promptly, says study author Dr Keith Sanford. Start a clash by using the word “you” (“You hog the sheets”), but when it’s time to resolve things, switch to the softer “I” (as in “I can’t sleep when I’m cold”).
