5 Tips To Improve Your Communication With Your Other Half

 

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Undoubtedly, there are many amazing reasons to be in a relationship. A partner can be your best friend, the person you rely on, and a source of support when you need it the most. However, it is not uncommon for couples to go through a rough patch every once in a while. 

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After all, life can throw endless challenges at you, and knowing how to react to them can make a difference. Nonetheless, facing these challenges with a partner by your side can be a lot easier than facing them by yourself. 

So, how do you build a stronger bond with your other half? The secret is in communication! And if you have started to feel that you are not communicating any more, check out the tips below and create an even stronger relationship. 

Ask Questions

Asking questions is key to opening a communication channel. However, the way you ask those questions can truly make a difference in the attitude perceived by your other half. If you are looking to leave aside all biases and preconceptions, make sure to use open-ended questions. This will allow you to avoid suggesting any response and encourage your interlocutor to actively think about an honest answer. In this way, you won’t just establish an open dialogue, but you will also allow your partner to freely express their feelings.

Remember That Much of Communication Is Non-Verbal

Over 90% of communication is nonverbal, which makes it particularly important for you to observe your partner and look beyond the words spoken. In fact, your other half might react aggressively or be unengaged to comment, but this does not mean that they actually feel that way. Instead, they might have something else on their minds or they might be worried or scared. Their attitude and body language can tell you a lot about what they are trying to say to you.

Be Clear About Your Needs

A relationship is made of giving and taking. So, while you might already be open and willing to help your partner, you also need to make clear what you are expecting from them. Without telling them, it is possible that some actions and words turn into frustration and resentment. Oppositely, just by telling them what you are expecting from them, you can avoid future issues and bring back balance.

Practice Active Listening

Active listening is key to creating a steady communication channel. After all, communication is a two-way street - and, without truly listening to the needs and wants of your partner, it can be difficult to understand what their feelings are. Active listening means attentively listening to the words spoken and non-verbal cues that can tell you a lot about what is going on in your communication. This technique can be difficult to master, but it can truly help you resolve conflicts and disputes. 

Leverage Technology

Technology can help you overcome all barriers to communication. For example, if you live in different countries and you are building a long-distance relationship, technology enables you to interact with your loved ones at a distance. Or, if your partner is serving time in jail, you can use apps to write an inmate and continue building your relationship.