When it comes to entering and maintaining a successful relationship, people often times do not realize that resulting problems and conflicts in the majority of cases are not actually "between the two", but merely a reflection of their own personal issues.

A happy and stable person with high self-esteem will generally perceive any given situation much different than a person who is rather insecure and doubting himself.

No matter if it is emotional baggage of the past, traumatic (childhood) experiences, bad role models etc etc, the important thing is to become aware of negative communication patterns and then work on improving them.

Projection and manipulation are often times used as unhealthy means to "defend" and strengthen one's position.

This unfair attitude makes sound communication between partners very difficult as it creates uncomfortable feelings for those involved.

An open dialogue where both parties express themselves freely while feeling equally respected seems impossible at this point.

Therefore, a confident and positive person is much more pleasant to deal with; simply because he plays it fair and allows others to be themselves, too.

Creating a relaxed and positive atmosphere around them, he/she will be perceived as a strong, friendly and independent person making communication easy.

Of course, this is not only true within relationships, but in any area of life where people interact.

Therefore, it is vital for any healthy relationship to know how to increase self-confidence, get rid of emotional baggage and develop new and healthy ways of communication.  Ch. Zottnick B.A.