Relationships are one of life’s most beautiful offerings. But what feels like a gift on some days can feel more like a labor of love on others—with the emphasis on the “labor.”

Relationship stress is a part of life and can occur for countless reasons, including troubling times around the world. Although relational tension is the default effect in times of distress, it does not have to be that way. Communication is the key to staying connected with your partner during troubling times around the world.

Here are 5 ways to trust your partner when you feel like the world is on fire:

1. Speak without criticism

Use “I” statements that allow for clarification and expression of emotions while avoiding initiating the blame game. According to research in 2018I-statements can help reduce conflict. Before applying these statements to your partner, it may be helpful to explain what you are trying to achieve.

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2. Listen without judgment

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Speaking from the heart takes courage. Remove judgment from the equation and let you and your partner say what you think and feel without the presence of fear.

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3. Connect across and beyond differences

Satisfy your curiosity! No two people or no two perspectives are the same.

Choose to view these differences as unique qualities rather than as enemies of conflict. Explore and empathize — You might be surprised by what you find when putting on your partner’s shoes.

4. Eliminate negativity

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Anything that is experienced negatively by you or your partner creates anxiety and disrupts the routine. feelings of securityand that breaks the connection.

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5. Express your affirmations

Encourage an optimistic mindset by offering regular affirmations to your partner. For example, this could be as simple as “I really appreciate it when you…”

Saying “thank you” to your partner It can increase feelings of love according to A study from the University of Illinois. When you remove negativity and add affirmations, you create a safe environment. You can survive in a dangerous environment, but you can only thrive in a safe environment.

It’s important to remember that the absence of conflict is not necessarily a sign of a healthy relationship. Inevitably some form of conflict will arise. The sign of a healthy relationship is the ability to quickly reconnect with each other after conflict arises and is resolved.

By applying these five practices to your relationship, your connections will reach new heights. When conflict arises, you’ll be better prepared than ever to quickly repair and reconnect.

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Harville Hendrix, Ph.D., is a couples therapist with over 40 years of experience as a counselor, educator, clinical instructor, author, and speaker and has received many awards for his work with couples. He and his wife Helen LaKelly Huntco-created Imago Relationship TherapyA therapy for couples practiced by more than 2,200 certified therapists in 30 countries.