The damage is done.
A partner, colleague or neighbor was careless, thoughtless, or stupid.
You complained or hollered, if only in your dreams, and now you're not speaking.
Maybe you're the culprit; you caused the upset.
And now, every time you cross paths, you feel icky.
Moving is out of the question.
Quitting your job is out of the question.
You're stuck.
Or are you? How do you resolve relationship issues? How do you apologize and restore peace even when it's not your fault? Here are 9 tips to help resolve those pesky and persistent relationship conflicts.
9 Tips for Apologizing and Resolving Relationship Conflicts These tips work with all kinds of relationships -- friends, family, colleagues, and grouchy neighbors.
With some of these tips, you don't even have to say anything.
There are lots of ways to say, "I apologize.
Let's stop fighting.
Let's be friendly again.
" Do as many as you can, and may all your brokenness be mended.

1. Take the first step to mend the relationship.
   It makes you look generous and softens hard hearts.
   
2. Genuinely intend to improve the relationship.
   Your motivation matters.
   If you really don't care, don't bother.
   If you're trying to one-up him or her, don't bother.
   If you're already planning to say smugly, "I tried, but it didn't work," don't bother.
   
3. Focus on the result you want.
   Quit thinking about the awful past, and visualize the friendly relationship you're going to have.
   Whenever you think about the slings and arrows of the outrageous past, change the channel and think about something positive about that person.
   (C'mon, there must be something, even if it's their firm handshake or kindness to animals.
   )
4. Apologize, even if it's not your fault.
   You've eaten food more bitter than humble pie.
   Trust me on this, you won't die.
   
5. If the other person blasts you with another round of fighting, stay calm.
   Listen without rebuttal, and sincerely repeat your apology.
   
6. Do a favor.
   Give cookies or something fresh from your garden.
   Clean up the area by your neighbor's curb.
   You can think of a bunch of favors.
   Partner favors include a back scratch, coffee in bed, and doing the dishes when it's not your turn.
   
7. Ask him or her for advice.
   Make sure your request is genuine.
   Be open to the suggestions you get.
   Hold the attitude of "Yes, that could work.
   " If you follow through on the suggestion and it helps, even a little bit, report back with a big thank-you.
   
8. Be patient and respond kindly to even the tiniest, most tentative response.
   Remember from your camping days that it takes only a breath of encouragement to turn a tiny spark into a hearty, warming fire.
   
9. As the shampoo bottle says, rinse and repeat.
   At the very least, you'll feel better about your kindnesses.