If you’re reading this blog post, chances are you, and your significant other have hit a snag in the relationship. Maybe you’re spending less time with each other, and you’ve grown apart. Alternatively, perhaps you do little else than argue these days.
All relationships go through their ups and downs. No matter the good intentions of the individuals or how in love you were when the relationship began, it is entirely natural for a relationship to take a hit now and then.
In some ways, these trials can be a good thing. Much like you need to break down muscle to build it up stronger than it was before, many relationships can be strengthened by challenges, provided your communication is healthy.
Here are some ways to improve communication in your relationship:
1. Recognise the Change
It’s essential to be open and honest with yourself and each other. Don’t deny that something has changed in your relationship, admit it openly. You may also need to recognise that each of you has changed over the time together. No one stays the same. Our wants, needs, passions, annoyances, change as we mature and grow as people. People can usually accommodate this change as long as they admit it has happened.
2. Validate Each Other’s Feelings
Two words are essential in communication, “Yes, and…” Effective communication is not about one person being right and the other wrong. Often, both people are right and allowed to feel their feelings. Try not to attack the other person or get them to compromise on issues. Instead, focus on being heard and hearing the other person.
3. Be Ready to Change
If you want to improve your communication as a means to get the other person to change their ways, you are thinking about this communication thing all wrong! Excellent communication is not about winning an argument. This is not a debate class. Your goal is to better share your thoughts, feelings, ideas, hopes and struggles. Don’t be so focused on getting the other person to change and focus more on how your behaviour could change.
4. Breathe
Managing your emotions is one of the essential skills when it comes to interpersonal interaction. How often are you ready to blow when you and your spouse or partner are speaking to each other? How does the communication breakdown once you or your partner have become emotional?
When communicating with your partner, or anyone, should you feel your emotions rise, stop, take a slow, deep breath, and let it out. Taking this moment is essential and will help you not to say something you’ll regret or that will escalate the situation.
None of us are perfect; we all make mistakes. All we can do is try to be the best versions of ourselves we can be for ourselves and our loved ones. By following these communication tips, you will be able to strengthen your relationships.
