Introduction “Conflict is a problematic situation that occurs between interdependent people who seek different goals or means to achieve those goals (Cahn and Abigail , 2014). » Perceived differences can harm the relationship if not addressed and are one of the hallmarks of conflict. A sense of urgency about the need to resolve differences is another characteristic of conflict. Although conflict arises in many places – in the workplace, between friends, parents and children, etc., one of the most difficult areas to arise is in a romantic relationship. Failing to resolve conflict can cause resentment and dampening of feelings toward each other, and the urgency to resolve differences is palpable. I shared the last five years of my life with a friend and former boyfriend, Rob, living in a 40 year old apartment building. boat on foot. Living in these cramped quarters with someone you love and get along with would be difficult, but living with someone who causes daily conflict is almost impossible. Rob has been married twice and had been divorced for 13 years when I met him. His general attitude toward relationships is that if you don't like what he's doing, "you know where the door is." I was told this several times during my first year with him. But I thought the good outweighed the bad. I was a full-time boater myself, traveling on an older boat before I met Rob and I loved that lifestyle. Traveling with someone else and sharing expenses allowed you to see many more places than you could travel alone. Dating a man who had very good qualities – love and compassion for animals, good sense of humor, also enjoying the nautical lifestyle, love of family – and living in a... middle of paper.. ....at, my situation, Rob, was resolved through my assertive communication measures and my request to seek counseling to help him deal with his misperceptions about women. I now know about relational transgressions, forgiveness and reconciliation. But that can only happen between two people who are willing to make things right. He refused and I moved. And life is much better outside of an atmosphere of constant conflict. Works Cited Cahn, DD and Abigail, RA (2014). Managing conflicts through communication (5th ed.). Boston: Pearson. O’Connor, A. (2009). Lee Marvin's partner gave the world 'alimony'. The Age/World. Retrieved from http://www.theage.com.auTavris, C. and Aaronson, E. (2007). Mistakes have been made (but not by me): why we justify foolish beliefs, bad decisions, and hurtful actions. New York: Harcourt.