Communication is the method of conveying thoughts, ideas, morals, values, and opinions from one person to another.
Communication plays a significant role in a fruitful relationship.
The quickest way to fizzle out of a happy relationship is by no longer putting in the effort to convey emotions with a partner.
Lack of positive communication can be seriously detrimental and may lead to a possible separation if not addressed and corrected.
Luckily, there are ways to resolve communication issues with a significant other.
A few of the most common communication mistakes are yelling instead of talking, giving the cold shoulder, and not being direct.
Before communication can be corrected, it must be understood.
There are two main types of communication found in most relationships: verbal and nonverbal.
Learning how to be proficient in both types of communication will help your relationship succeed.
Verbal Communication Mistakes
Demonstrate verbal communication by using language or voice to relay information.
Start developing verbal skills by avoiding filler words and actively listening.
Avoiding filler words when speaking with someone will allow ideas and requests to be clearly understood.
Whereas, active listening will allow one to grow by intently listening to the claims of others.
Yelling instead of talking and being indirect are both forms of poor verbal communication skills.
It is normal to have discussions where voices are higher than usual, but habitually, there may be a communication issue to blame.
Yelling during arguments might be creating more problems than can be solved.
While raising voices may lead to a stronger emotional reaction, it is only provoking a defensive response.
Learning to remain calm during intense discussions is not an easy feat, but it is achievable with practice.
Think of a recent argument, note the emotions that led to the outburst, and evaluate what could have changed to deescalate the shouting.
Being indirect within a relationship can cause a lot of harm as well.
People cannot read minds and cannot know what their partner wants at any given moment.
There are many reasons why honesty can be scary for some individuals, but this can be a significant source of misunderstanding and conflict.
Asking questions directly, not allowing fear to take over, and being receptive to feedback will be beneficial when learning to become a direct communicator.
Nonverbal Communication Mistakes
Nonverbal communication is using gestures or body language to show emotion or convey feelings.
Nonverbal cues such as crossed arms, tight lips, and hunched shoulders are examples of ‘closed’ body language.
These gestures can indicate that one may be upset.
Nonverbal cues such as open arms or uncrossed legs are examples of ‘open’ body language.
Be intentional with nonverbal communication by using body language to show emotions.
Ignoring issues, or giving the cold shoulder, is one example of poor nonverbal communication within a relationship.
The cold shoulder or the silent treatment displays indifference toward that person.
Ignoring a significant other will only allow them to feel that they are not cared for or worthy of your time.
It can seem like a good idea to step away from a disagreement, but often stepping away for a short period only makes the couple forget.
At which point, the main issue does not get brought up again and is never fully resolved.
It can be surprising how positive of an impact sitting down to discuss the issue, instead of running away, can have for the relationship.
The Bottom Line
Without a doubt, correcting improper communication will be beneficial for maintaining and improving personal relationships.
It will undoubtedly take time and practice to achieve excellent conversation techniques, but it can be accomplished by understanding and developing both main types.
Healthy and positive forms of communication include being a good listener, a direct speaker, and learning positive or negative nonverbal gestures.
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