Effective Communication For A Happy Relationship

Between all the different stresses of life and parenting, our communication skills with our spouse can sometimes suffer. We all know that good communication is the key to a healthy relationship and yet when life gets in the way we often to resort to poor communication when trying to get our point across. Here are some basic and simple communication rules to consider when communication with those you loves.

1. Is My Tone In Line With What I’m Saying?

Sometimes it’s not what we say but how we say it. Remember if you want those you love to actually hear what you’re saying you may have to re-evaluate how you’re saying it. If your tone sounds hostile or negative then the words you are actually saying may not reach the person you are saying them to. Before you speak, take a moment to think about what it is you are going to say and make sure that the tone of your voice matches the spirit of what you intend to say.

2. Am I Really Saying What I Mean?

If you say you’re fine with the decision that was made but you really aren’t then being upset over this will be frustrating to your spouse. If you really want open communication then you have to make sure you are saying what you mean. Trying to avoid conflict by just agreeing or not speaking up when something bothers you will just lead to hurt feelings and anger on both sides.

3. Was It Really Always And Never?

Most people have used these phrases when trying to communicate a point to those around us, be it our spouse or our children. “You always work late”; “You never pick up your clothes”. When we say things as concrete like these phrases it leads to the other party to be on the defensive and they stop listening to what we are saying and instead start defending themselves. If there is an area in your relationship that you need to discuss, don’t put your partner on the defensive. Instead tell them what the problem is and how it makes you feel. This will make them more likely to listen and less likely to defend.

With a little bit of effort you can drastically improve your communication skill and have your loved ones eager to hear you out and understand what you are trying to say.