In most relationships, there will always be a few disagreements. Instead of trying to avoid conflict altogether, it can be helpful to learn a few strategies to argue well. In fact, if you can argue in a healthy, productive way, you can still win people over, even while you're in an argument.

We recommend self-editing. Think about your phrases before you speak, especially during arguments. This will help you avoid being overly offensive or cruel while fighting. Give the other person space and time to make their points, listen, and respond carefully.

If you learn how to have healthy arguments, you might even find that your relationships grow. "Great friendships grow through the discussion of ideas," says Susan McLennan. "Inevitably, you will differ with your new friend on some of those ideas. You want your honesty and authenticity to shine through and not be taken by some misguided desire to be right. Disagreements strengthen a friendship. They signal resilience and they expand its edges and scope." As Dr. Bruce Bassi adds, this kind of arguing might even help you and the other person reach a "common ground."