6 Ways to Fix Bad Communication in Your Relationship

1. Practice Active Listening

One of the most foundational concepts of communication is active listening. Yet, for many couples, this is a skill that is often not effectively utilized or practiced for that matter.

There are plenty of reasons for not being an active listener. Life is busy, there are a million distractions, or you’re simply trying to form your own responses/rebuttals to the conversation.

Practicing active listening is the best starting point for fixing bad communication with your partner. Put your devices away, avoid those distractions, make eye contact, and allow your partner to finish their thought before you say anything. Truly listen to what’s being said. Not only will it help improve your understanding, but it also validates your partner.

2. Avoid Accusations

Another important step in fixing bad communication is to avoid an accusatory tone or statements. Accusations will instantly put your partner on the defensive.

Instead, practice incorporating the use of “I” statements. You’re framing your concerns and feelings in a way that expresses your feelings without placing blame.

For example, rather than telling your partner, “You never help me with the household chores,” you can try saying something like, “I feel overwhelmed when I have the sole responsibility for completing household chores.”

3. Be Mindful of Non-Verbal Communication

Communication is made up of the verbal portion, but a larger part comes from our non-verbal communication habits. When communicating with your partner, pay attention to your facial expressions, hand gestures, body language, and tone of voice.

You may not find these things problematic, but your partner may not receive them as you intend. We all have different communication styles, so this is worth exploring with your partner so you both are on the same page.

4. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

This one may seem odd, but as mentioned above, life gets busy. Plan time in your schedule for regular check-ins with your partner.

See if any pressing issues require time and conversations. Use this time to express any emotion or feelings you’ve been having, both positive and negative. If nothing else, take this time to form a deeper bond and connection with your partner. Regular check-ins can reduce issues and prevent any build-up when challenges do arise.

5. Be Empathetic

During conversations with your partner, remember to practice kindness. When you’re with someone for many years, your communication style can become relaying information without any warmth. Efficient responses are not always empathetic.

When you experience conflict, remember your partner has valuable insight, even if their viewpoint differs from yours. Finding mutual understanding can help reduce conflict and show appreciation for each other even in differences.

6. Don’t Hold Onto Issues

Most people don’t enjoy arguing with their partners and can create a bad habit of avoiding conflict. However, healthy conflict can foster a stronger bond and promote growth within a relationship.

When situations arise that are frustrating or challenging, don’t be afraid to tackle them head-on. But once you’ve resolved them, let it go. Make sure you aren’t using old arguments as ammunition in new conflicts.

Bonus Tip

It might be time to turn to a professional if you’re having persistent issues within your relationship stemming from communication habits. Therapy can help you explore underlying issues in your relationship, how to reconnect with your partner, and strategies for finding healthy resolutions to conflict.

If you are ready to improve communication in your relationship, contact us to schedule an appointment today.