Effective communication is what turns good relationships into great ones.
But let me be honest with you, getting communication right isn’t always easy, especially when life throws a few curveballs.
Here are some solid strategies to enhance communication with your partner.
1. Establish a “Communication Zone”
Set up a time and place that’s conducive to open, undisturbed and non distracted conversation.
This could be a nightly chat on the couch or a walk after dinner.
The key is consistency and the absence of distractions. No phones or television, yes, that Netflix series can wait!
If you can create a routine it can provide a safe space for both you and your partner to share thoughts and feelings regularly.
2. Practice Active Listening
Listening is about understanding your partner’s perspective. Try this:
- Maintain eye contact.
- Nod your head and repeat back what you’ve heard your partner saying to confirm understanding.
- Resist the urge to formulate your response while your partner is speaking.
- Focus solely on their words and meanings.
3. Own it and use “I” Statements
Frame your sentences with “I” instead of “you.”
For example say:
“I feel upset when our plans to go out run late without a heads-up,” instead of “You always make me wait.”
This way you are expressing your feelings and avoiding blaming or accusing, which is likely to make your partner defensive.
4. Ask Open-Ended Questions
Do you want a deeper connection ? If so, and why not right! Ask your partner questions that require more than a yes or no answer.
Questions like:
“How did that make you feel?” or “What do you think about…?” invite your partner to share more detailed thoughts and feelings.
This really shows that you value their input and experiences.
5. Acknowledge and Address Emotional Needs
Communication is also about an emotional exchange. No need to fix anything! Not even a solution in sight unless your partner is asking for one!
It’s about recognising and responding to your partner’s emotional needs. It could be when they need:
- Reassurance
- A listening ear
- Empathy
Recognising the emotion behind the words is as important as the words themselves.
6. Keep Cool During Conflict
How do you handle conflict? The most important part of managing conflict is to:
- Keep your cool when tensions rise.
- Take a breather if emotions get too intense.
- Come back and talk through it when you are both calm.
Remember, the goal is not necessarily to win an argument but to understand your partner’s point of view, resolve the differences and maintain a healthy relationship.
7. Celebrate Great Communication
When you have a really good conversation, acknowledge it with your partner. Say something really simple like:
“I really appreciated our talk today”
Reinforce positive communication habits.
Celebrating these moments builds confidence in your ability to communicate effectively as a couple.
Effective communication is a continual process.
It requires the 3 P’s!
- Patience.
- Practice.
- Persistence.
