Some people never want to be the ones who back down from arguments, and it seems they always have to get the last word in.
But for those who prefer to avoid confrontation and put out fiery arguments before they start, there’s one simple phrase that’s most effective at putting an end to fights.
Hal Runkel, a marriage and family expert in Atlanta, says you just need to show a bit of hurt. The best thing to say?
“Ouch.“
That one simple word is enough to startle your partner and make them realise they’ve done something to hurt you, Runkel told Business insider. After you’ve caught their attention, follow up with something along the lines of this explaining to them that you’re feeling hurt:
“That one hurt. I don’t know if you were meaning to hurt me; I don’t know if that’s what you were going for; but that’s what you did.”
Runkel says that the word “ouch” is a great defence because if you’re willing to show you’re hurt, your partner is more willing to take it down a notch.
This will make your partner far more eager to kiss and make up, admit guilt and apologise, adds the expert.
Now you know how to pour water over a potentially dangerous situation. But if you’re looking to heat things up, try these 7 ways to keep your relationship hot.
