Communication really is key when it comes to successful relationships. However, we all know that it can be quite a challenge at times. In order to have effective and positive communication with your partner, it requires both of you to work towards it. If you’re not sure where to start, we’re offering some advice on how to enhance positive communication with your partner.
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1. Self-Awareness is Essential
Self-awareness is essential when it comes to effectively communicating with your partner. If you’re not cognizant of the thoughts and emotions swirling around inside of you, it’ll be impossible for your partner to understand how you’re thinking and feeling if you aren’t even sure yourself. Self-awareness also helps you to understand the needs and desires of your partner in a more compassionate and non-judgmental way. These are just a couple of important reasons why increasing your self-awareness is paramount to establishing healthy communication in your relationship.
2. Recognize Conflict Communication Style
Conflict occurs in even the healthiest of relationships. In fact, conflict isn’t a bad thing if both partners are effective communicators. Oftentimes, conflict is what leads to growth in a relationship. However, we all have different conflict communication styles, and it’s important to recognize what your and your partner’s style is if you want to reap the positive benefits of challenges in the relationship. Once you both have a better understanding of how you two communicate during the conflict, it’ll be easier to navigate and approach the conflict with respect and a deeper understanding of where the other is coming from.
3. Feelings Should Be Validated
This part can be tricky, particularly for men as women are more emotionally wired. Emotions and feelings should always be validated by your partner. While communication comes in the form of words, these words often stem from how we’re feeling. If you or your partner tell one another, “You shouldn’t feel that way,” that’s setting the tone for negative and ineffective communication. This is particularly true if it’s a difficult conversation, and it’s important that both partners acknowledge and respect how the other one feels.
4. Give Them Space
Space is necessary for a relationship to thrive. This is true even when it comes to communication between two partners. Sometimes, people need a few minutes to calm down or process their thoughts, and they’d rather do this alone before communicating with you. While you may want to jump right into a conversation, respect your partner if they say they need some time to themselves first. Forcing a conversation with your partner will never end well. As long as both people in the relationship respect the other’s need for space, you can bet that communication will be more effective, positive, and compassionate.