The alternative solution is to punt. Give up the right to be right. Check out what you might be able to learn from the other point of view, which might even be as valid as your own. Shocking, I realize, but highly possible. The simple truth is that in marriage there are times when you can be right or be happy, but not both.
Conflict arises and they shut down.
Usually tomb-ers have a strong fear of conflict, believing that any conflict will end the relationship. And they're more than willing to remind you, in detail. An alternative solution is to get a dry-erase board and write the current conflict on the blank board. Deal with it. Over, done with, gone.