One of the biggest issues in any relationship is that of communication. Married couples go through many different phases in their lives, and their ability to communicate with one another could be the difference between growing stronger and growing further apart. It comes as no surprise that therapists and counselors cite communication problems as one of the most common complaints brought to them by estranged married couples.
Good communication does not always come easily, and it takes commitment and effort on both parts. Even if there is a strong connection when a couple first marries, as they mature and their lives change, a greater focus on improving communication may still be required.
Learn to listen
Communication is not just about speaking. Learning to listen to your spouse is a crucial part of good communication. It is worth remembering that very often there will be a deeper meaning to what your spouse says, and it may not be immediately apparent what that is. Listening to your spouse is about taking the time to give him or her your undivided attention, and applying the empathy and understanding to find out what is really meant. Active listening is essential, too. Always look at your spouse when you are talking to him or her.
Acknowledge differences between genders
Many successful books have been written on the differences between men and women, notably John Gray's 1992 best-seller, "Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus." In spite of the book's light-hearted title, the text includes many important observations, and some great learning about the different ways in which men and women communicate. It is vital to acknowledge and celebrate these differences. They need not be a reason for friction, as there is no wrong or right way to communicate. Taking time to understand your spouse can greatly improve the communication between you.
Manage difficult conversations carefully
While good communication is an ongoing process, difficult conversations require special consideration. It is important to discuss difficult matters at a time that is relaxed and convenient to both parties, and where the location is suitable. Take time to think about what you want to say, and what you want the outcome to be, preparing yourself for the way in which you expect your partner to react. In many cases, difficult conversations are prompted by one partner, who is much better prepared than the other. Don't allow these conversations to become one-sided or manipulative.
Being right isn't as important as being understood
Remember that communication is about ensuring understanding, not about winning an argument or competition. Arguing a point on the basis of who is in the right is largely a waste of energy and barely resolves anything. Blame will always damage effective communication, as it shifts the emphasis onto point-scoring and defensive behavior. The measure of success of good communication is that both parties understand and can empathize with each other. They don't have to agree.
Be aware of body language, tone and volume of voice
Communication includes the subtleties of body language, tone of voice and overall volume. Raising your voice indicates aggression, as does continually pointing your finger at your partner. In an emotional situation, it can sometimes be very difficult to moderate these behaviors, but that doesn't mean that you shouldn't make the effort. If your partner acts in a way that makes you feel uncomfortable, replay this using a sentence starting with "I" rather than "you." "You are making me feel uncomfortable" sounds more accusatory than "I am feeling uncomfortable."
Good communication skills take time and effort to develop, and even with plenty of practice, there will still be times when it is very difficult to avoid confrontation. Ultimately, how you and your partner manage those situations is critical to the well-being of your marriage.
Avoid communication breakdown in a relationship by tackling the problem head on. |
Learn how to tell if someone is lying. The answer could be staring you right in the face. |
Effective communication isn't just for public speakers or CEOs. It will help improve every aspect of your life. |
Techniques for effective communication will help you maintain a strong and healthy relationship with your partner. |
Successfully getting your point across can be hindered by communication barriers. Why not focus on breaking down barriers to effective communication so your message is properly interpreted? |
Interpersonal intelligence comes in handy in social, business and personal relationships. Learn how to increase your interpersonal communication skills. |
Your communication skills should always be a developing work in progress. This will lead to an ongoing healthy relationship. |
What are good communication skills? There are approaches to communication that will help disagreements strengthen your bond, shed light on who you and your partner are as individuals and otherwise help you be as happy as possible. |
The four types of communication you use to interact and, in particular, the approach that you favor, sheds light on your personality and your overall communication skills. Figure out which of these approaches most obviously matches your general demeanor. |
If you're encountering barriers to effective communication in your marriage, communication tips could be priceless. |
The types of nonverbal communication that might be conveying your thoughts and feelings to others are just as important as the words you say. Learn how and why nonverbal communication can make such a difference in how you are perceived. |
Communication is a key skill, regardless of your vocational field. The ability to communicate effectively can often make the difference between individuals who get better j...click here for more. |
The importance of communication skills can't be underestimated, as they are critical to your relationships with family, loved ones and coworkers. Most people, however, fail to realize just what knowing how to communicate can do for them. |
Spotting communication problems in relationships can be challenging, but often very necessary. |
If your personality traits aren't compatible with those of your partner the relationship might not survive. |
Learn effective communications styles and techniques for effective communication to help you avoid communication breakdown. |
Communication problems in relationships do more than leave one or both people exasperated in the moment. They can signify a deeper issue and lead to further relationship problems down the road. |
Understanding communication styles can help you improve your relationship. |
If the people to whom you are communicating are constantly missing your points, it might be time to freshen up on effective communication skills. |
You may have noticed over the years that your man doesn't seem to be interested in what you have to say. As a result, you have felt frustrated and many times unloved. Could...click here for more. |
There are many different types of communication humans use to transmit information. Learn about these communication approaches, without which two people would be incapable of sharing a bond or working as a team. |
Why is communication important? Consider it this way: without basic communication skills, two people couldn't even build a fire together, much less a relationship. |
Good communication in relationships can help ward off major problems. |
Being aware of communication styles will help you in your dating life. |
