Whether with coworkers or your significant other, the ability to communicate effectively is the difference between cooperative, productive conversations and combative, anxiety-ridden ones. So, if you want to lean how to communicate better in relationships, today’s blog post is for you. Keep scrolling for some simple tips for better communication.
How to Communicate Better in Relationships
Ready to discover how to communicate better in relationships? Our therapists recommend…
Releasing Blame
It’s totally okay to have a problem without a cause. Instead of pointing the finger, acknowledge the milk was spilled. Then, work together to clean it up.
Accepting Multiple Viewpoints
Nothing is entirely black or white. And it’s okay (and normal, as well as preferable) for you and your partner to feel differently about things. If you agree on absolutely everything, you have likely sacrificed your individuality for the sake of the relationship.
Most disagreements are not a relational threat, and many are unresolvable. Instead, you and your partner must learn to live with your disagreements and compromise. You don’t need to agree on everything to have a fulfilling relationship. All you need to do is try to understand where your partner is coming from and never stop communicating.
Focusing on What You Can Control
Most people get incredibly caught up trying to control things they cannot. However, focusing your energy on other people and situations prevents you from considering your own thoughts, words, and actions.
Avoiding Unnecessary Conflict
Just because someone tries to start a fight doesn’t mean you have to comply. Instead, pause, take a deep breath, and consider whether the discussion is worth engaging. If so, how can you do so in the calmest and most respectful manner?
Asking If Conversation is Welcome
Instead of imposing your thoughts and feelings onto another person, make sure they are in a place to receive them. Taking a gentle approach and asking if you can talk about something is a great way to defuse defensiveness.
Not Talking Over Them
When two people are constantly talking over one another, neither is truly listening. Instead, allow a few seconds of silence to pass before you respond. This gives you an opportunity to truly process what was said.
If the other person isn’t giving you an opportunity to speak, feel free to jump in with a “May I say something?” (Or something of the sort.)
Couples Therapists in Fort Worth, TX
If you want to know how to communicate better in relationships, we hope today’s blog offered some helpful pointers. However, if you’d like to improve your specific communication style — or apply personalized techniques to your relationship — our couples therapists in Fort Worth, TX are here for you. Contact our team to discover how we can serve you or to set up an appointment.