When Communication Fails

Effective communication is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship. Here are five common communication pitfalls you and your partner should strive to avoid:

1. Too Preoccupied

Consistently ignoring or dismissing your partner’s attempts to connect—whether verbal or non-verbal—can be highly damaging. When your partner reaches out, make a conscious effort to truly pay attention. Shut off the TV and don’t look at your phone.

2. What Am I Going To Say

Thinking of what your response will be before they finish. Truly listening and comprehending each other before responding, which will enhance the effectiveness of every conversation. Even if it takes a minute to think before you respond. 

3. Interrupting

Don’t interrupt. Breaking in while your spouse is talking shows a disregard for their thoughts and feelings. Letting them fully finish their thoughts fosters a deeper connection and allows you to fully understand. Practicing patience shows respect.

4. Wanting to Win

Wanting to win an argument instead of understanding your partner’s perspective often leads to defensiveness and communication breakdowns. The goal should be loving communication not conquering. You both win when you both listen and connect relationally. 

5. Making Assumptions

Thinking you know your partners thoughts and motives will lead to wrong conclusions. Your spouse needs to express complete thoughts to know they are heard. Be sure to clarify what you understand they are saying will reduce conflict. Even if you know what they are trying to say will cause them to respect you if you allow them to say it. 

By being mindful of these common communication issues, you can strengthen your relationship and ensure a more harmonious connection with your partner.