Don't try to force a person to be someone they are not. If you want respect, keep your word. If you make an agreement in the kitchen, keep it in the bedroom. Every agreement you've ever made is really with yourself. If you want a healthy relationship, strong communication skills are a necessity, not a luxury.
Trouble usually starts when talking stops.
Things come up all the time that have to be worked through patiently and lovingly, even when you're having a bad day. It gets easier over time, but it takes work and a willingness to break up scar tissue and tear down walls. Communication skills are what make a person a good lover. Arguing skills are not communication skills. Arguing better than someone doesn't make you right, it just makes you better at arguing.