8 hacks for better relationship communication
Relationships are never created in a vacuum. When two emotional beings meet, they carry with them their own set of prior experiences and expectations. These expectations can strain a relationship over time, and you may believe your spouse doesn’t care because they don’t act the way you want them to.
It may appear that relationships would always degrade, yet communication is the ace in the hole for couples. And it’s one of the most important aspects of getting to know each other and aligning your expectations.
The most widespread misunderstanding regarding communication in relationships is that since you chat to your spouse and spend a lot of time in the same location, you automatically communicate. You should always consider seeing a counsellor or a relationship specialist to help you get back on track with your communication in your relationship or to guide you in the right way to communicate, listen and understand your partner better.
Communication is much more than simply talking and listening to what the other person is saying. It involves paying attention, making your argument clearly, understanding your partner, supporting their point of view, and communicating with each other in a productive manner.
- Actively listen
Listening is one of the most important components of communication. Most of the time, communication within a relationship consists of each spouse attempting to get their point through.
Effective communication necessitates the development of effective listening skills. Furthermore, attentive listening entails far more than simply remaining silent.
Listening requires you to establish a genuine interest in your spouse. Rather than attempting to foresee every event, be interested in your partner’s point of view.
- Spend valuable time with each other.
Communication and connectedness go hand in hand. Having fun with your companion pulls you closer together. The closer you are, the more likely you are to disclose your deepest ideas and feelings.
Choose a shared activity, schedule frequent date evenings, and spend a Sunday afternoon together, in the most fun way for both. The more you enjoy yourself, the more you will communicate.
- Be truthful to one another
Honesty is the foundation of great communication. Speak out if you are in pain or disagree with your partner.
Do not act as though you are pleased if you are not. Sincerity will enable you and your spouse to solve challenges more effectively.
- Take note of your nonverbal behaviour.
According to one research, nonverbal communication accounts for 55% of how you and your spouse perceive your message. What you say is only a small part of communication. Tone of voice, eye contact, gestures, posture, facial expression, nodding, tightened jaw, balled up fists, rolling eyes, and other nonverbal cues are also used to communicate.
- Respect others.
It is critical to show and retain respect for your spouse at all times. The authors of The Seven Principles of Making Marriage Work urge spouses to prioritise their partners’ sentiments over their own need to be understood.
Even when debating, be mindful of what you say and how you say it. A partner who is angry or depressed is less likely to engage in a productive conversation. Remember that you can’t take back words you’ve already said.
- Accept responsibility when you make a mistake.
Accepting responsibility for your actions demonstrates maturity. Being defensive will make it more difficult for your spouse to bring up an issue the following time.
Remember that there is no shame in acknowledging a mistake. Adopting an egoistic posture that inhibits you and your spouse from progressing is irrational.
- Make certain that the timing is correct.
While you want to tell your spouse everything, it is best to do so at the appropriate moment. If it doesn’t seem like the ideal moment, keep looking until you discover the best time and place. Something that may be rejected if said now may be heard or considered by your spouse if brought up at a later time.
- Focus on the bright.
Your communication with your spouse will be more fruitful if you have a cheerful attitude. According to experts, there should be a 5 to 1 ratio of positive to negative words in each discourse.
Negatively comparing your spouse to someone will be harmful to your discussion. You can’t expect to get anything out of your partner if you’re already making them feel inadequate.
Avoid using judgmental language and laden statements, your partner will reply angrily, and nothing will ever be settled.
Couples who know how to communicate properly can get through problems in the bud before they become major relationship eating problems.
Being more careful in your communication tactics may aid in the creation of a safe space in the relationship where any difficulties can be discussed and resolved. Always consider the implications of what you are going to say to your spouse.
Instead of focusing on winning disputes, prioritise knowing your partner and your relationship. It is preferable to be happy than correct. The Holistic Living is one of the fulfilled approaches one should have in their life and in relationships.
