Effective Communication…

Communication is a two-way process in which two individuals talk and listen to one another.  It is important to be able to communicate with your partner at all times.  Communication needs to be open and honest at all times.  A combination of good verbal and nonverbal communication will help to strengthen the bond between the two of you and help bolster trust.  Both types will also help prevent possible misunderstandings and errant thoughts.

A key factor in the whole process is timing.  Find the right time to talk to your partner.  If you are discussing something important or emotional, where you need their undivided attention, try not to start when they are at work or in the middle of something that holds a special interest to them.  They will most likely be more attentive and receptive if the timing is right.  Both of you will be able to focus and concentrate better without a lot of distractions around.

When talking about something important or emotional, you should do it face to face or on video, if possible.  If you are in front of each other, it gives the conversation that personal touch that is often needed.  A lot of things can be lost in the process during texting or by sending an email.  For example, through a text, you cannot hear the tone nor inflection of your partner’s voice.  Plus, sometimes all you want is to see is their face and look them directly in their eyes as you talk.

Body language is also a big part of communication.  The way that you carry yourself tells a lot to other people.  Your mood, intent, and mental state can be seen through signs that your body gives off.  It is important to relax and maintain direct eye contact so your partner knows that you are listening and involved.  For example, if you look away from them, it can suggest signs of guilt or that you are uninterested in what they have to say.

There are a few barriers to effective and positive communication.  Emotions can jeopardize effectivity.  Some people who are overly emotional lose focus on the topic of discussion.  Also, they lose their composure.  Silence is another roadblock.  If you are silent, nothing can be discussed.  Being unwilling to talk will not help.  If you are upset, take time out and continue the conversation when you regain your composure.  The worst thing that you could do is to be silent and never discuss the issue when your partner asks you a direct question.

Nobody is a perfect communicator all of the time.  Hopefully, between the two of you, it will work out where you support and lift one another up.  Communication needs to be open and honest.  It is very important that both of you know exactly what is going on and you are both on the same page.  You must be able to listen in order to give revelant feedback in the whole communication process.