Tips for Improving Communication in Your Relationship

Open, clear communication is the foundation for happy, healthy relationships. This article provides tips and advice for those hoping to develop just that.

Most people believe that improving communication would make a world of difference on their relationships. Sometimes weak communication skills may be the underlying problem of many conflicts, so it is important to improve and maintain communication. There are many ways a couple can go about doing just that.

According to the University of Nebraska in Lincoln, www.unl.edu, there are certain practices that improve communication skills. You can, for instance, listen to your partner more and talk less. This allows you to hear--truly hear--what your partner is trying to say instead of being absorbed with what you are going to say next to them. Allowing your partner to express themselves will help them feel vindicated and appreciated.

Another tip is to pick the right time to make your point. Talking with your partner while either one of you is stressed, tired, hungry or otherwise distracted will not allow for a successful and productive discussion. Cross words may be exchanged making any sort of resolution impossible.

When things do heat up, however, it is easy to forget to play fair. That's when clear and effective communication means the most. Make sure you listen and understand what your partner is saying, and vice versa. Also, do not verbally or physically, for that matter, attack your partner. Bitter or hurt feelings and wretched words will only complicate things.

In addition, make sure you resolve one issue before moving on to another. Leaving feelings and opinions unresolved will not mend a relationship.

Clear communication takes a lot of work and patience. It is up to both people in the relationship to take the time and make the effort to listen to each other, keep harsh words at bay and work together to come to a resolution. Effective communication may be the saving grace of many otherwise faltering relationships and marriages.

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