Let’s talk! No really, Let’s talk!
Communication is so important with all relationships including friendships, colleagues, family and romantic relationships. We not only want others to listen to us, but we want to be HEARD. There is a difference between talking and communicating, and we have to learn how to communicate effectively.
So we all understand the desire to be heard, right? But HOW does that playout in relationships? How do we make sure we give others the space to be heard? Well, I’m so glad you asked, because we’re diving into some helpful and easy communication tips! You ready? I challenge you to practice these simple and effective tips + tricks and see how your communication is positively affected!
Alright, let’s get to it…
5 tips on effective communication
1. Listen to one another- give your partner the chance to both talk and listen and reflect on what your partner says. The key to how to communicate in a relationship is often not in the actual verbal communication at all – it’s in the way we listen to our partner. It is also important to request clarification if we are not sure what our partner is saying.
2. Remain open- It is easy at times to bottle things up but discussing issues together so you can tackle them together is important. It is also important to say what you mean and be clear. It will also help with self-awareness and being able to admit when you are wrong and working through it to move forward.
3. Identify your communication style- The four main communication styles are passive, aggressive, passive-aggressive and assertive. Passive communicators are the ones who find it hard to say “no”. aggressive communicators are often very intense and loud and have trouble making connections with others. Passive aggressive communicators tend to avoid conflict and will use sarcasm as ways to avoid it. the healthiest way is assertive which is communicating feelings clearly and calmy.
4. Be present- putting time aside to talk to your partner that is uninterrupted and intentional so that they feel the relationship and the communication and connection is a priority.
5.“I statements”- these take the blame and accusatory statements off your partner and still let you express how you are feeling. It also helps us own our own feelings and take responsibility for our actions.
So give it a go + try out these easy and effective communication tips. I hope you notice that you’re a better listener and that you feel heard by those around you. Happy communicating my friends!
~Courtney
I became a therapist because I want to help people who are struggling to change their lives. I work with clients in a caring and compassionate manner, and I tailor the treatment to fit their needs and goals. You are the most important part of your treatment - it needs to relate to your life in a way that works for you. I will challenge you to overcome the challenges you see in your life with support and positive feedback. My approach is working collaboratively toward a happier life for you by helping you make positive changes, including increasing your self-awareness and those barriers that have come between you and your goals.
My specialties include working with teens, pregnancy and infant loss, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and self esteem issues.