At some point, anyone in a relationship has to learn how to deal with a stubborn spouse. Although her wife or husband may not be stubborn by nature, there are situations in which this trait can arise and it is best to be prepared to handle it.

Since each person is unique, each one has many different characteristics that may conflict with those of another individual. A partner who is not willing to give in and has to get their way can spell trouble in a relationship.

If you are in the same dilemma, the following are steps you can take to deal with a stubborn spouse.

Step 1: Understand why your partner is stubborn.

You may not be seeing the logic behind your spouse’s decisions. Try to see it from his perspective. Sometimes our judgment is clouded by anger or frustration.

What are you missing? When you’re learning to deal with a stubborn spouse, remember that being in a relationship means you’re ready to work out your differences and make sacrifices.

You are bound to have some differences; but trying to understand where your partner is coming from is the first step in resolving them.

Step 2 – Choose your battles.

When your spouse just won’t back down, don’t waste time trying to argue, nag, yell, or otherwise complain.

If it means a lot to your partner, let him know that you support him this time. Make them understand, however, that when the time comes when you are in the same position and it means more to you, you would ask for their support in return. Choose your priorities and be willing to “lose” the rest.

Step 3 – Take a positive approach.

The key to knowing how to deal with a stubborn spouse is to avoid hostility or violence of any kind. Fight or freak is never the answer. Hot tempers will only provoke verbal or even physical attacks.

The important thing is to keep a cool and level head, so that you can talk or negotiate the issue calmly and reasonably. There is nothing that a good talk can’t solve.

One way you can tip the scales in your favor is to present new evidence or proof that confirms the validity of your point. Often the ego gets in the way; but when you present new evidence, your agreement will be read in light of that evidence and not because you have changed your mind.

Learning to deal with a stubborn spouse, especially when they tend to become narrow-minded, can be challenging. However, be patient and keep in mind that learning to manage this power struggle can ensure a happy and successful relationship.