Conflict happens in every relationship; what matters most is how you repair afterward. Repairing doesn’t erase what was said, but it restores trust and keeps the bond intact. Below are concrete steps you can practice the next time you need to mend after an argument.

Pause before re‑engaging
Take time to calm your body. Try slow breathing, a short walk, or a few minutes of silence. Approaching too quickly while emotions are still high often backfires.
Name your part
Acknowledge something you contributed. This is not about taking all the blame but about showing accountability: “I raised my voice and that wasn’t helpful.”
Express care clearly
Use a direct statement of care: “I don’t want this fight to hurt us. You matter to me.” Simple, sincere words are powerful.
Ask for a reset
Invite a fresh start: “Can we try again?” This signals openness and readiness to move forward.
Agree on one small step
Decide together what’s next: giving each other a break, finishing the conversation calmly, or writing down thoughts before talking again.
Practice repair consistently
Repetition builds trust. Small but steady efforts to repair make the relationship sturdier over time.

Why this works
Research shows that effective repair reduces lingering resentment and prevents conflict from hardening into distance. It’s not about perfect words; it’s about the intention to come back together.