Fighting Over the Remote Control?

By: Lisa Bower

Fighting over the remote control is more normal than you might think. People have different tastes and different interests, so having a disagreement over who gets to watch what is bound to happen, especially during a big sports event. If you and your partner are talk about the television shows you want to watch and when, you can negotiate control of the remote without throwing it or slamming the door.

First of all, you and your partner should talk about the television shows you love. These programs are top priority. If possible, work out a schedule so that you're not trying to channel surf when your significant other's favorite detective show is airing its season finale. If you give in for a season finale, make sure your partner gives in if your favorite sports team makes the playoffs.

If, by some sick twist of fate, your favorite television shows overlap, consider investing in a digital video recorder. This will ensure that you don't miss your favorite programs and will protect against an argument.

When your favorite shows are not on, make sure to take turns or create a schedule so the remote control is shared equally. You may not have to make a literal schedule, but, if you and your loved one have a hard time deciding who gets to watch what, this could help.

Finally, when dealing with remote control issues, think about why this has become such a big argument. Do you watch television more than you spend quality time together? What role does the television play in your home? Is it time to cut back? The best way to deal with fights over the remote control is to figure out why it's an issue to begin with.

No matter the reason for the fighting over the remote control, make sure to address the issue before things get out of hand. Sit down and talk about how to solve the problem, and make sure that this discussion occurs away from the television.

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