Interaction in a relationship is not merely an information dissemination process. It is much more than that because it plays a pivotal role in building a relationship. Non-communicative couples hardly come to trust each other even when, on occasions, they express their intentions explicitly. Trust based on instincts is still a farfetched cry.
Communication is a collaborative process, for it requires the cooperative participation of both the partners. This is to say that both the partners must be willing to overlook the petty differences in opinion and work towards creating love and harmony in their relationship.
This is not to say that you suppress your opinion or feelings, but then your expression should not lead to cold war and conflicts. Agreed, that it is not your responsibility alone, but one of you have to take the charge and set an example for the other.
The best way to incorporate tolerance in your attitude and knowing when to say what is to simply put yourself in your partner’s shoes for any situation that you may be facing. You will instinctively know the right way to react, because something that is liable to hurt you will be equally capable of hurting your partner.
Given below is the list of common communication stoppers and ways to avoid them:
Making assumptions
Judging your partner’s actions on the basis of those assumptions and your prejudices will affect your relationship equation negatively. It is affirmation they are looking forward to from you, the rest of the world anyway judges them and their actions in a not so positive light.
Critical Appreciation
How hard you try but no amount of criticism is perfectly positive. Moreover, put in your valuable comments only if you are sure your partner will take them sportingly and not feel belittled.
Preaching
Nobody likes a preaching or a nagging spouse. Already enough people in the world do that. The last thing a person wants is a lecture on ethics or mannerisms from one’s better-half. If at all you feel the need to say something you feel is constructive and will help your partner, say it in a loving way, as you would have had yourself spoken to like that.
