Do you struggle with good communication, especially with the people you love? If so, today’s topic is for you “Tips For Good Communication.”
My husband and I, have been married now for 34 years. However, communicating well has always been a struggle, and still is to this day. Although, it’s gotten better over time I’m always willing to learn more on this topic. Hence, today’s blog.
Occasionally, I’ll read an article or hear something that makes a strong impression on me. When I do, I like to share it. Today’s re-post will come from day two of a reading plan titled; “The Marriage Course.” It gives numerous tips for good communication, and you’ll find it in the Bible App under plans.
The devotional on day 2 titled “The Art of Communication” can be applied to most relationships, not just marriage. However, good communication is something my husband and I struggled with for along time and feel this help tremendously.
So, I relate to this devotional and I hope you’ll find these tips from day 2 helpful like we did. And just maybe, you’ll engage in the rest of the plan.
“The Art of Communication”
We all have a deep longing for emotional connection; it is a fundamental human need. Emotional connection in marriage will only be achieved where there is good communication.
Effective communication
Different levels of communication:
- Level 1: Passing on information
- Level 2: Sharing our ideas and opinions
- Level 3: Being open about our feelings and needs
Level 3 takes vulnerability and requires trust and involves both speaking and listening well.
Good communication is multilayered; it involves:
- our words
- our tone of voice
- our body language
The importance of listening
Our aim in marriage should be to listen twice as much as we talk.
Good listening is one of the most important skills to learn for a strong marriage. Listening has great power to make our husband or wife feel loved and valued.
Hindrances to listening
Five bad listening habits
1. Disengaging – When we have a separate conversation going on in our head or we’re not listening properly because of our physical environment.
2. Reassuring – Not allowing our partner to voice negative emotions.
3. Giving advice – Focusing on solutions rather than empathizing with our partner.
4. Going off on a tangent – Taking over the conversation with our own agenda.
5. Interrupting – Failing to let our partner finish what they want to say.
These habits can prevent the speaker from saying what they’re feeling, which may eventually cause them to shut down.
We can all learn the art of effective listening, but it takes time and requires us to be intentional.
Five steps for reflective listening
1. Try to put yourself in your partner’s shoes – Put your own views to one side and really appreciate what it’s like for your partner to be feeling the way that they do.
2. Acknowledge what they’ve said – When you have listened to what your partner wants to say, reflect back what they have said rather than putting your own opinion or point of view.
3. Find out what is most important – Then ask your husband or wife: ‘What is the most important part of what you have been saying?’
4. Help them work out what they might do – Now ask: ‘Is there anything you would like to do (or, if appropriate, like me or us to do) about what you have said?’
5. Ask if your partner has said all they need to – Don’t assume you already know everything your partner wants to say. If there is more, reflect this back, too.
Plan by: Nicky and Sila Lee
I hope today’s reading was helpful because cultivating good communication skills is healthy for any relationship.
I would love to hear any comments you may have on today’s post.
Thanks for reading.
Have a blessed day.
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