Communication In Relationships
Communication is important in any relationship, be it romantic, family or professional relationships. Communication allows you to effectively share feelings, opinions and expectations. However I find that many people fail to communicate or hardly communicate due to
- Fear of rejection
- Fear that they’ll end up upsetting or even losing their partner, family members or friends.
- Fear of share there true feelings or views of a situation for whatever reason
The first thing is: be clear about what you want to communicate. Make your message clear, so that your partner hears it accurately and understands what you mean and does not assume what you mean. Talk about what is happening and how it affects you. talk about what you want, need and feel – use ‘I’ statements such as ‘I need’, ‘I want’ and ‘I feel’ without being aggressive or offensive in the process.
When communication occurs, it typically happens in one of five ways:
5 Main Types of Communication
- Verbal Communication.
- Nonverbal Cues Speak Volumes.
- Visual Communication.
- ACTIVE LISTENING.
- CONTEXTUAL COMMUNICATION.
Remember that everything starts from the mind – “as a man thinks so he becomes.” So unhealthy verbal communication often starts with negative thoughts or difficult emotions rather than words. If you are in a long-term romantic relationship, you have spent enough time with your partner to feel like you know them inside-out.
Here are 7 barriers to communication that are definitely killing your relationships:
- Physical Barriers. – distancing yourself from your partner
- Perceptual Barriers. – barriers you erect in your mind
- Emotional Barriers. – when emotions that over and clouds judgement
- Cultural Barriers. – cultural or religious sensitivities
- Language Barriers. – comprehension issues, generation gaps
- Gender Barriers. – gender roles and communication styles
- Interpersonal Barriers. – poor self-confidence and self-esteem
- Removing Communication Barriers. – not wanting to make self-improvements
All barriers to communication can be resolved. When you understand the barriers to effective communication that you have consciously and subconsciously erect, you can smash them down to ensure your message is getting through loud and clear.
Marilyn Mars
