7 Ways to Improve Communication With Your Partner
Photo by Shelby Deeter
Are you confident that you always communicate with your partner the best you can? Do you regularly fall out with each other over silly misunderstandings?
According to professional counselors like www.isaiahcounselingandwellness.com, not everyone is convinced that communication is an essential part of every relationship. However, the statistics speak for themselves!
According to surveys, poor communication is the number one reason why couples split up with each other. That’s why you need to keep reading this article to find out how you can improve your dialogue with your loved one.
Discover how to communicate better with your partner with our seven practical tips. Let’s get started below!
1. Be Quiet and Listen to Each Other
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Most people don’t listen when someone else is talking to them. This is simply annoying most of the time. However, it’s extra important when the other person is your partner. It would be best if you listened to them to know how they’re feeling and what’s going on with them.
If you find yourself drifting when they’re talking to you or only waiting until there is a gap in the conversation so that you can resume talking again, something’s wrong. Listening is usually a neglected part of communication. You need to make sure you’re seriously working on your listening skills if you want to save your relationship.
This may start to realize that sometimes you need to put your relationship and partner’s needs before your own. Check out more about this on our blog.
2. Rephrase the Words of the Other Person
If you’re struggling to listen to your partner, you may need to adopt a technique commonly used by many therapists. It’s pretty simple once you get used to it.
When your partner says something to you, practice rephrasing what they said back to them. Of course, don’t merely repeat everything they say always. This will get annoying quickly. But, you may find that forcing yourself to rephrase what they say helps you to reflect on their feelings and thoughts. This can help you better understand your partner.
If your partner doesn’t like it, you can always explain to your partner what you’re doing. Once they know that you’re using this technique to better listen to them, they’ll surely be understanding.
3. Honesty is Always the Best Policy
source: projecthotmess.com
Did you know that nearly three-quarters of people say that they have lied to a partner? White lies to avoid hurting each other’s feelings may be ok. But, you shouldn’t find yourself always keeping secrets from each other.
After all, before you know it, small lies grow into even bigger ones. This can have awful consequences for your relationship. Being more open with your partner can help you to establish trust with each other. When you show yourself as vulnerable, you’ll naturally communicate more openly together.
4. Learn to Spot Non-Verbal Clues
According to studies, over 93 percent of communication is actually down to non-verbal signs. If you’re only paying attention to what your partner says out loud, then you’re missing most of it. Always keep an eye out for the non-verbal clues that help you understand each other’s emotions. Everyone has different ways of communicating non-verbally. You’ll learn these signals over time.
Have you noticed that your partner isn’t looking at you in the eyes? This may be because they’re trying to hide something. This could be due to embarrassment or shame. Are they folding their arms? This usually indicates that your partner is engaging with you, and they want to close themselves to you.
5. Be in the Moment With Each Other
source: greatlakespsychologygroup.com
Are you neglecting your relationship because you’re constantly distracted by something else? This can make communication together with each other a nightmare. Whether you’re stressed at work or distracted by your smartphone, there are many ways that you need to reconnect with your partner.
Turning off your smartphone and talking with each other one-on-one is a vital part of any relationship. You’ll find that when you spare a moment to be with each other, you communicate much better.
6. Take a Break to Be More Patient
When you’re communicating with each other, you won’t be able to display patience at all times. Sometimes, you need to take a break. It can be not very easy to pause the conversation and ask for a break. You might be talking about something significant for your relationship but challenging to share.
Remember, it’s ok to ask to sleep on it overnight. You may need to take a breather and go for a walk. When you return, you’ll be able to communicate with more patience.
7. Watch Your Words
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When we’re talking with people who were close to, it’s easy to forget to be mindful of words. You don’t think so carefully about what you say to your loved ones.
But, it’s even more essential to avoid certain things with your partner. When you say harmful and inconsiderate things, they can be much more hurtful than you realize. Even when you get into a dispute, hold your tongue. Don’t say anything you regret because it will only make things worse.
How to Communicate Better with Your Partner?
Effectively communicating with your partner isn’t always easy. It doesn’t matter how much you love and care for each other if you can’t tell each other how you feel – you’re doomed!
If you’re worried about how you communicate with your loved one, make sure you follow our practical tips. You don’t have to scream and shout at each other every time. Do you want to know about our counseling services? Discover everything you need to know by getting in touch with a licensed counselor in your area.