Smoothness in relationships relies on communication. Many of us face similar hurdles, even if we don’t talk about them. Communication, in general, is difficult
We talk about complex issues. We like to express our feelings too. Even though our perceptions are unique, we have to communicate our self through words. This can lead to misunderstandings if we do not use the words properly.
Even if you don’t mean to hurt your partner, criticism can feel personal. This doesn’t mean you should avoid discussing relationship issues. Still, make sure to balance your requests and constructive criticism with as much praise and gratitude as possible. Find ways to compliment your partner and show you appreciate them. Here are some points to keep in mind for better communication.
Interrupting. When you interrupt your partner, you imply that what you want to say is more important. Even though this may not be your intention, it can still hurt. You may get excited about the topic of conversation and want to share something to connect. Even so, set your thoughts aside and let your partner finish before you take a turn to speak.
Forgetting to be empathetic. Your partner may feel upset about something that wouldn’t bother you. Avoid the tendency to shrug off their concerns. Instead, put yourself in their shoes and think about how they feel. Show your partner that you understand by rephrasing their perspective back to them. Ask questions to show that you’re listening and emotionally engaging.
Being passive-aggressive. It’s easy to get angry and to want to hurt your partner with your words. We’ve all made passive-aggressive comments that we regret right away. The thing is, hurting one another with snarky remarks isn’t healthy communication. If something is truly bothering you, address it in a straightforward manner.
Avoiding difficult subjects. Conflicts happen all the time: at work, at home, and in our social lives. The best way to resolve conflicts is by having open, honest conversations. However, instead of tackling these difficult discussions head-on, we often try to avoid them at all costs. We imagine all the ways these conversations might go horribly wrong. In our imaginations, such talks never end well.