Communication Skills for More Harmonious Relationships

By Maria Khalife

“One can be very happy without demanding that others agree with them.” ~ Goethe

One of the strongest challenges to a relationship is communication. Assuming you know what your partner is thinking is most unwise. But if you work on your communication skills, you can work together to turn your “I thought you meant” into “Ah, now I see where you are coming from”, and you’ll both enjoy a more harmonious relationship.

Communication skills will serve you well in all the aspects of your life, but more so in your intimate relationship, because no matter how strong the love is, even very tiny rips in the flow of information can turn into torrents when you add your misunderstanding, your prior history, and your erring conclusions to what might have been a very innocuous communication.

There are some red flags in the area of communication for which you should be on the lookout. That would be habitual criticism, bossiness, partner not actively listening, incompatibility, how each feels about handling money, the division of chores, not making your relationship a priority, lack of trust, and overblown emotions.

All of these involve communication skills, and if you work to resolve them without harming yourself or your partner, you can foster a more harmonious relationship.    

Be supportive via touch.

A hug or a kiss is often the very thing which allows your mate to feel supported. The meeting of the eyes in agreement over the heads of the children allows you to know you’re working together.

Ask questions.

Assume nothing. If you find yourself thinking “Oh, I know he’ll want this,” make sure you are accurate by asking him. You can foster deepness in your communication by asking questions and then listening attentively. Are you sure you know your partner’s hopes and dreams? Ask him or her.

Just do it!

You know that tough area that scares you to discuss? Set up a time and talk about it openly. Behind every relationship problem is a ten-minute discussion you’ve been avoiding. Do it now and let it pass.

OM Times Magazine » syndicated