How to Approach your Partner when Angry

One of the hardest things to do in a relationship is to be nice to your partner when you're upset with them. It's also one of the most important moments to be kind. Dr. Gottman's research shows that couples who start arguments gently are more likely to manage conflict effectively, without harming the relationship. In fact, it is in these moments that Dr. Gottman can predict the success or failure of the relationship with over 90% accuracy.

Dr. Julie Gottman explains that, "Kindness doesn't mean that we don't express our anger, but the kindness informs how we choose to express the anger. You can throw spears at your partner. Or you can explain why you're hurt and angry, and that's the kinder path."

The Vow of Kindness

Kindness is not just important in the heat of an argument, rather, it is about your mindful and considerate behavior throughout your relationship. When we enter into a committed relationship, most of us make some sort of declaration  - a promise or a vow  - that we will uphold our partner and care for them. We also make a secondary promise: that we will be our best selves ,  full of integrity and hope for a successful future.
The act of not choosing kindness is therefore doubly hurtful - to our partners and to ourselves - because it undercuts our efforts for growth and the potential for greater intimacy.Despite the difficulties of daily life, partners are in charge of their own behavior. While a couple grows together, they are not precluded from growing as individuals as well  -  in fact they must evolve as individuals in order to continually bring their "best selves" to their partner.

Kindness Begets Kindness

How can you cultivate a habit of kindness in your relationship? Below are 3 powerful tips that you can put into action right now, regardless of where your partner is on their journey:1. Think good thoughts
We are wired to feel how we repeatedly think. Thinking positive thoughts about your partner will make it easier for you to think more positive thoughts, and to speak and behave positively towards them. In order to get into the habit of being kind, you must practice the thoughts as well as the actions.Remind yourself of the nice things your partner has done each day. Noticing the good things about your partner helps to keep you in what Dr. John Gottman calls the Positive Sentiment Override. It is a sense of hopeful well-being that arises from a positive thoughts and positive interactions.2. Accept responsibility
Take responsibility for assessing your own feelings before presenting them to your partner. Whereas anger and frustration are legitimate emotions, further exploration might reveal that in fact you feel annoyed or sad about a situation. Perhaps upon reflection you find that in fact you felt abandoned or that your dreams are not being acknowledged. Being able to accurately pinpoint your feelings will help you to convey them in a kinder, gentler tone to your partner.You might think it is more authentic to say exactly what's on your mind without filtering anything for your partner, but consider that once they are hurt, it is harder for them to connect with you empathically3. Let hope win
Have faith in the relationship and in your commitment. Even though you will have ongoing arguments with you partner, focus on your friendship. I see couples in my office who want to "solve" their issues first before going out for an ice cream or relaxing over dinner. It's not possible to solve problems with someone you don't want to collaborate with.

Kindness Allows You to be Heard

Ultimately, kindness serves your expression of difficult emotions by offering your partner the capacity to really hear you. Even if you are angry, in order to approach your partner effectively you must be kind. If you've paved the way for your partner to be open to you, they are more likely to hear your frustration and respond with compassion. Kindness gets your needs met.