When it comes to relationships, some people give way to their partners in order to keep the peace and maintain the bonds of their partnership. They say, “I need to do whatever my partner decides, so we can maintain our relationship.” They may believe that they don’t have the right to disagree, or they are unworthy.  They may assume that being open about their feelings would leave them vulnerable. They may become convinced that they lack the skills or power to successfully resolve the problem. They hope that the problem with dissolve if they just wait it out.

But is that reality?  While there are times that conflict should be avoided, often avoiding conflict leads to frustration, resentment and increased hostility.  It is like a volcano.  As the emotions remain unexpressed, the pressure gradually builds inside.  Nobody else may notice that the pressure is building, but one day something sets it off, and varoom, the top blows.

Do you know people who excessively react to small irritations?  Sometimes this is because they are doing all they can to hold in that explosive energy.  They are the volcano waiting to blow.  They don’t want to confront the situation.  Ironically, the more they hold it in, the more explosive they become.  The solution is to gradually reduce the pressure by discussing concerns in a safe environment.  If it is not safe to directly confront the person with your concerns, find a professional therapist who can help.