Many couples feel as though their communication is good when they are getting along but find everything falls apart when they fight. This means their couple’s communication skills aren’t really as good as they think. However, this doesn’t mean there is nothing they can do. Couples who are having trouble communicating can learn a lot from couple’s counseling. Before you go, there are some things you can do to start putting your communication on the right track.
Active Listening
Just because you are hearing what your partner is saying doesn’t mean you are really listening to what he is telling you. If you find you can’t even remember what you are fighting about to begin with, you may need to learn active listening skills. One of the ways to practice these skills is to repeat back what your partner is saying to you. This will show him you have heard what he said and really care about he has to say.
Take Time Every Day
Life is often busy for most couples, especially those who have children or where both partners work. However, it is important to take time for each other to ensure your relationship is still on solid ground. Good couple’s communication skills require you to practice them on a daily basis. After the children are in bed and before you turn in yourself, sit down together with the television and other electronics off and just talk about your day and what has been bothering you. This time together will strengthen your relationship.
Go Out Together
Not only is it important to spend time talking every day; it is also important to go out together, especially if you have children. It can be so difficult to maintain the connection that first attracted you to each other. You can increase the good communication between the two of you by setting aside one night a week or month to go out on a date together to reconnect on an adult level.
While it can be important to seek outside help to learn good couple’s communication skills, there are also things you can do at home to help your communication efforts. Practicing active listening by repeating back what the other person has said to you will show him you are really listening to him. In addition, taking the time to talk every day and go out on a date every once in a while will strengthen the foundation of your relationship.
