6 Effective Communication Tips for Couples

When you first meet someone, you start off by messaging them on the internet and/or talking with them face-to-face. As you continue to communicate, the conversation flows, and you keep learning more and more about one another.

Communication is the foundation of any relationship. It's where your relationship begins, and it's what helps it grow. No matter if your communication could use a little improvement or you're merely interested in strengthening an already solid foundation, some tips and tricks can help you and your partner.

Here are 6 effective communication tips for couples.

1. Practice Active Listening

While it may be important to share your side of the story, it's just as important to hear your partner out. Even if you may not agree on the topic of conversation, you and your partner both need to show one another respect.

This means that each person should have the opportunity to talk and share their point of view. While one partner is talking, the other person should be actively listening. This means giving one another your full and undivided attention, not interrupting them, and asking clarifying questions when they're done speaking.

2. Don't Fight to Win

When you're in a relationship, there are no winners and losers. You shouldn't be arguing with your partner to prove a point or to win. Instead, you both should focus on compromise.

One partner shouldn't feel like they're constantly giving while the other is taking. Make sure that at the end of every conversation, especially any heated arguments, that you're working to come to a mutual resolution that can benefit the both of you.

3. Be Mindful of Your Nonverbal Communication

When speaking to someone, it's important to be mindful of what you're actually saying, but it's also important to make sure that your nonverbal communication matches your verbal communication. Make sure you're thinking before you speak but that you're also being mindful of things like your tone of voice, facial expressions, eye contact, posture, and gestures.

4. Use "I" Statements

Another way that you can work to improve your communication is by using "I" statements. This simple switch in words can help to drive the conversation forward instead of making it take a step back. When you use "you" statements, your partner may feel like they have to go into defense mode.

Instead, switch both of your frames of mind by showing your partner how you're thinking and feeling. This way, your partner will be more focused on your wants and needs rather than feeling like they need to defend their actions or behaviors.

5. Schedule Check-Ins

Even if you and your partner spend every day together or live together, no two days will look exactly the same. You each have your own lives that consist of your own careers, hobbies, goals, family, and friends.

Make sure that you're setting time aside to check in with one another to have deeper conversations instead of just asking about one another's day and eating dinner together. Regular check-ins can help you and your partner address anything in your relationship that you may want to change. This is a great way to be proactive towards any issues so that they don't become worse.

6. Seek Additional Support

If you and your partner are struggling to communicate with one another, it's important to know that you're not alone. Communication can be a challenge. Having a difficult time getting on the same page doesn't mean it's the end of your relationship, it just may mean that you and your partner need to work harder to get back on track again.

Working with an outside third party can help provide a fresh perspective on your relationship. Reach out today to learn more about how couples therapy can help you and your partner improve your communication together.