How to Improve Communication Skills for Your Significant Other

How to Improve Communication Skills for Your Significant Other

by | Nov 8, 2021 | Relationships & Weddings

“Communication is Key.”

We’ve all heard this saying before, it’s not only relating to relationships but also friendship, family, work, and business. Communication is key to any successful relationship. May I add even to any healthy relationship? Yes!

Communication is expressing, sharing, showing, and voicing ideas, feelings, emotions, and even signals from the eyes to body language and even hands. It is about expressing yourself, paying attention to your significant other. In addition, with communication comes listening and understanding, with both – an effective relationship.

You could be a great talker in a relationship but not a listener or be a listener and not a talker, it doesn’t work that way. You have to be both giving and receiving the same energy you want from your partner. It’s essential in a relationship to communicate. It may sound simple and easy, but remember, it’s always the little things that matter and makes a vast difference.

Yes, couples quarrel and disagree but they try to do so in a compassionate and effective way to save their relationship and do little things to reach out to each other to avoid getting things out of control. Be observant about the little things. Here are ways to improve communication in a relationship;

10 Ways to Improve Communication in Your Relationships

1. Ask Questions Like: How was your day?

This question can be answered by just anyone with “I’m fine” but coming from your partner is different, completely different.

Be extra. This question should be answered in detail, talk about how your day went, what you ate, how you got to work, how your boss looked so funny, or what you did all day.

With this question, you’re in touch and in sync with your partner. It also helps you both communicate as you both don’t run out of what to say and even if you do, tomorrow is another day to keep it going. Check in with your partner every day!

This is a way to improve communication in a relationship, invest in it.

2. Avoid Overthinking It

Did he do this? Did he do that?

Hey! Stop that! It takes two to work in a relationship. Stop overthinking about what they are doing. It’s always never worth it. You end up getting worked up over nothing. Instead, reach out to your partner and talk to about ways to improve communication in the relationship.

Assuming, expecting, and overthinking lead to disappointment and your feelings getting hurt.

3. Be a Good Listener

You could be a great talker but are you a listener?

A listener in a relationship is someone who instead of walking out of a relationship actually stays back to understand where their partner’s point of view is coming from. Listen and understand why they got upset over something you think is trivial or listen to what they have to say overcoming late to a romantic date. When you talk, listen, and understand. That is the effort, a way to improve communication in the relationship.

A partner should have this quality to make a relationship peaceful.  A partner should listen, understand, and always try to forgive. Relationships can be bumpy, trust me, I have been there but I still believe it takes two to work, always. Furthermore, you have to understand and try to make amends wherever you both might be wrong.

4. Encourage Communication Between You Two

Communicating gives you an effective edge to solving problems and gives you an effective relationship and a happy attitude. Problems can be solved by communicating, understanding where you went wrong, and of course, forgiving, and letting go.

To be in a relationship is to forgive because you will be with a whole different person who has to know and understand you. They are not you and you are not them. What pisses you off might not piss them off but when you do piss them off, acknowledge it and tender an apology. It inevitably grows the relationship as you get to know and understand them in the process.

Every moment is an opportunity to connect with your significant other – always respond when they try to communicate. If your partner is trying to reach out, be there for them – this is a way to improve communication in a relationship and they are showing you they want to try with you.

Talk about future plans together, your sex life, where and how you both can improve in the relationship, and how to be each other’s support system. Make efforts to meet up with your partner’s emotional needs.

5. Avoid Caviling

Avoiding finding fault or criticizing your partner is one of the ways to improve communication in a relationship. Cavilling is criticizing, blaming or finding fault in your partner over unimportant and frivolous reasons.

“Arrrgh, you did this the last time”

“This is all your fault”

These are two different scenarios, I’ll explain.

The first talks about “the last time”. This tells you this partner held on to something he/she did the last time and a repeat of it ticked them off. This is a NO when you’re in a relationship.

You should address an issue and tell your partner how that made you feel, how it affected you. Shit happens, we all know that. Your partner could do something or you could do something wrong, immediately talk it out. Don’t hold grudges. Don’t build their wrongs up. Such piling leads to bigger misunderstandings and quarrels, and that is not healthy for a relationship.

The second focuses on “your fault”. You should not nitpick or point blames to your partner over unnecessary issues that could be addressed. Resolve issues calmly. Listen first and then respond.

Remember, you don’t always have to be right and that’s why “I’m sorry” exists. Be sincere about the apology and pick the right time to discuss the issue.

6. Talk about Planned Schedules

“Hey babe, remember the meeting/deal I told you about? It’s happening today. I’ll talk to you later tonight, say 11 pm. Do take care and I love you”

Little things matter as I said. This is a “major little thing”. Here, this partner is telling and wanting his significant other to know how stressful his day will be and what time he’ll talk to her so she doesn’t worry about him. Thoughtful, right?

It means they are communicating and also reassuring their partner that they have them in their heart and will definitely reach out when they have themselves back.

This little thing is communication all in one because they know their partner will worry about them and of course, they are saying the love word – and improving communication in the relationship.

7. Always Show Appreciation

“Thank you for letting me know this beforehand. I wish you the very best of luck, babe. Of course, you’re that luck in my life. You’ve got this. I love you”

This is another effort this lover is putting to reply to his/her significant other’s message. He/she is appreciating and expressing gratitude that their partner took out the time to let them know about their schedule for the day. They are also showing support and believing in their partner and of course, telling them they are lucky in their life to boost their confidence.

You see, relationships are about effort and energy.  This message might just be words but it tells a lot about their efforts and energy. More so, the way to improve communication in a relationship is by showing appreciation and gratitude for something thoughtful your partner does. It’s quite simple, you know.

“Thank you”

8. Compliment Each Other

“You’re beautiful”

“You’re smart, my wonderful man”

“You make me feel better”

“I love your eyes, your big eyes”

“I love your butt”

Always keep telling your partner what you love and appreciate about them even in the relationship. Don’t stop when you’re in a relationship. Everyone loves reassurances in a relationship, I know I do.

Getting too comfortable with each other should be a good thing as it gives you chances to communicate effectively and express yourself however you want and of course, say naughty words.

9. Discuss Your Sex Life

“I like this better”

“I like it more when you moan directly to my ear”

“I like it when you twirl your tongue”

These are ways to improve communication in a relationship – it involves a comfortable conversation around your sex life and it is effective as it makes you both better and connected.

 You should discuss your sexual fantasies with your significant other, that’s why it’s essential to be comfortable around each other. It enhances your connection, trust, excitement, and leads to better sex and a rewarding relationship.

10. Don’t Forget to Flirt!

Keep up with the flirting and the complimenting. There are a lot of nasty words and gestures that get your partner riled up, blushing, and all giddy. You need that, it is healthy.

As a lady, you could just take off your clothes in a sexual manner while your partner stares at you, get all nasty and naughty as you bite down your lip. Keep up with eye contact. It matters.

Don’t lose this, it’s exciting. You necessarily don’t need to get dirty, do it for fun. Laugh about it, enjoy it. Enjoy every flirty feeling, it helps in building the relationship.

Conclusion

The reality is really, little things matter. A partner who loves and is observant about you will know what ways to improve communication in a relationship and fix upon where they might be wrong. So, build that relationship with communication.

Furthermore, having a strong base, a strong foundation goes a long way in making communication easy for you. Relationships get bumpy along the way but trust me, it is beautiful with the right person. Communicate, Understand. Love like it’s your first!

10 Tips for a Healthy Relationship

10 Tips for a Healthy Relationship

by | Oct 16, 2021 | Relationships & Weddings

Have you ever wondered how to build healthy relationships? Are you like me, who after watching “The Sun is Also a Star”, wished for a relationship that was both mutual and healthy?

The good thing is, I found the recipe on how to build a healthy relationship. Being in a relationship can be an exciting experience, especially when it’s at its early stage. Your heart skips and you develop goosebumps at the sound of your partner’s voice. The real test comes when the relationship progresses.

As time goes on, you get to discover what you like and dislike about your partner. Conflicts arise and if this is not handled properly, it can build up to an unhealthy relationship. This article seeks to help you avoid that.

These 10 Tips Can Show You How to Build a Healthy Relationship

1. Being Respectful Can Encourage the Growth of a Healthy Relationship

A relationship where both partners have respect for one another is a recipe for building a healthy relationship. Naturally, it is courtesy to be respectful to people. Just because you’re familiar with your partner does not give you the chance to be rude. This is very obvious during arguments.

Arguments are parts of a relationship you can’t avoid. Dear, it comes with the package. Knowing that arguments are bound to happen can help you maintain decency during such a period. You can have an argument without necessarily fighting.

Watch what you say when you’re angry. Avoid cursing and calling each other names when having a fight. Some words cannot be taken back when said.

2. Listening to Each Other Can Help Build a Healthy Relationship

In this era of social media, trends, and news, it is so odd that so much is being said and little is being heard. While it is true that communication strengthens relationships, sometimes all your partner needs are your listening ears. So, be a good listener.

Your partner’s view may be opposite to yours. As tempting as it may feel to object, the logical action to take is to listen. The bright side of this is, you get to know the thoughts of your partner, while also serving as a safe space for them and preventing arguments.

3. Be Ready to Apologize When You’re at Fault

Being apologetic when you do something wrong helps build healthy relationships. Being able to say “sorry” when you’re wrong is a necessary skill for building a healthy relationship. Apologizing when at fault shows you understand that you’re wrong and you care about how your partner feels. It also helps you both sort out the issue as it occurs without letting negative feelings stay long.

While it may not be your intention to hurt your partner, apologizing shows you care about the relationship. Admitting your fault and taking steps to ensure such an issue does not reoccur builds transparency and trust.

4. Setting Boundaries in Your Relationship Can Build a Healthy Relationship

Boundaries are limits to what you can or cannot condone. Respecting each other’s set boundaries can help build a healthy relationship.

Setting boundaries allows you to connect with your partner without having to let go of your standards. Healthy relationships thrive when partners know and respect each other’s boundaries. For example, when it comes to sexual intimacy, setting boundaries can help your partner know what activities you’re comfortable with.

Learn the habit of setting boundaries as it allows you to grow into a relationship at your own pace and standards.

5. Effective Communication Is the Foundation to Building Healthy Relationships

A fundamental part of building a healthy relationship is learning how to effectively communicate with each other.

Good communication is a skill that requires learning and patience. It goes two ways: Effective Communication and Effective Listening. When good communication is established, you inevitably experience a positive emotional connection with your partner.

Here’s how you can communicate effectively:

  • Never assume your partner knows your needs. It is your position to let them know how you feel.
  • Make sure your message is clear, easy to understand, and courteous. Sometimes, the issue is not the message but how it is presented.
  • Pay attention to your partner’s body language. Are they sad, hyperactive, or tired?

Take into consideration your partner’s emotions when communicating. If you’re not conscious of their emotions, you can unconsciously damage the connection between the both of you. Effective communication surely helps build healthy relationships.

6. Creating Time for Yourself Away from Your Partner

As strange as this might sound, you must create space for yourself outside your relationship.

While spending time with the one you love is essential, it is important that you also have time for yourself. Couples who spend time together without having time for themselves outside the relationship tend to “get used” to each other and eventually lose the craving they had from the onset.

If your partner wants to contact you at all times or expects that you account for all your actions outside of the relationship, this can come off as being too controlling or too dependent.

As a lady, have a fun time with your girls. Go out, have some non-alcoholic drinks, chase your goals. As a guy, play video games with your boys and watch that football match.

Being close with your partner is important. However, it is also important that closeness does not affect your life outside of the relationship.

7. Express Admiration and Appreciation for Each Other

We all love to be admired and appreciated. That little “You look gorgeous today” and “Thank you for this gift” always put a smile on our faces.

In a relationship, it is healthy for both partners to show appreciation to each other. When your partner goes out of the way for you, be inclined to express your thanks. Words like “Thank you”, “I’m grateful” and actions such as buying gifts, flowers, and surprises are ways to express appreciation.

According to research, one of the reasons long-term couples split up was that one of the partners no longer showed enough affection and attention as they used to. Do not get too familiar with your partner. When they look dead gorgeous, say it. Let them know what you think of their looks and bodies.

8. Intimacy in a Relationship Can Foster a Healthy Relationship

Intimacy helps build healthy relationships. The term intimacy has come to be associated with sex. While consensual sex may be part of being intimate, it’s not the only way of being intimate. Intimacy is the feeling of closeness or openness towards someone else, not necessarily involving sexuality.

Intimacy can be likened to the bond between a mother and child. At infancy, a child would always want to be near the mother. Simple things like hugs, touches, and even kisses matters to the child. As we grow up, these tendencies do not end with infancy.

As partners in a relationship, you both must get intimate with each other. When in public, hold hands together. Watch a movie together wrapped in a duvet while it rains. Frequently, dish out words of affection.

9. Resolving Conflicts Together Can Strengthen Your Relationship

Every human interaction is bound to have conflicts and this is perfectly okay. Both of you will have differences and mindsets and this can sometimes lead to conflicts. Rather than avoid conflicts, it is better to resolve them as they occur. Avoiding conflicts can lead to bottled-up feelings, stress, distancing, and inevitably break-up. 

Conflicts are good. It strengthens the bond in a relationship because it helps identify the likes and dislikes of both partners. It becomes an issue when it occurs frequently and is left unresolved.

Communication is the best way to resolve conflicts. Remember that effective communication occurs when the message is clear, easy to understand by the receiver.

Talk with your partner to see their perspective of the issue and communicate your perspective too. Take into consideration your emotions and theirs and be patient. Try to reach an agreement that suits both of you.

10. Honesty Between Partners Builds a Healthy Relationship

This cannot be overemphasized enough! No relationship built on lies can survive the test of time.

When you talk to your partner about your day, do not hide details you feel. This would be an issue later on. They should hear it from you than from an outside source.

If something is bothering you, be open to express it with your partner. Sometimes, trying to hide details you feel might be irrelevant. When you do this, you not only hurt your partner but your honesty becomes questioned.

Conclusion

A healthy relationship is such an amazing experience. It, however, requires the effort of both partners involved.

Communication with each other can help build intimacy and connection. In the process of communicating, conflicts will arise.  Resolve the conflict gently without flaring up or cursing; nothing good comes out of these anyways.

More so, create time to spend with each other, volunteer together, read together, and listen to music together. Actions like these build connections between partners.

If you have found your knight in shining armor or your Cinderella with her lost shoes, practice these tips on how to build healthy relationships and watch your relationship become #relationshipgoals.

Make some comments below in the comments section if you find this article helpful. Thank you.