How to Solve Relationship Problems Without Breaking Up

The episode, excerpts from "The Field Manual for Relationship Repair," functions as a comprehensive guide offering evidence-based strategies for improving intimate relationships and personal well-being. It asserts that successful relationships are defined not by the absence of conflict but by the mastery of repair attempts, citing research on relationship satisfaction and divorce prediction. The manual details practical techniques organized into several parts, including addressing Dr. John Gottman's "Four Horsemen" of relationship toxicity and utilizing Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) principles to uncover unmet needs during arguments. It prescribes specific daily micro-habits, such as the "6-Second Kiss," and structured weekly meetings to prevent larger issues, while also providing advanced scripts for dealing with past hurts and common flashpoints like money or se$. Finally, it outlines red flags and criteria for seeking professional help from certified therapists, positioning conflict resolution as essential for building "trust units" in an emotional bank account.