How to communicate

Doesn't matter how long or short you've been together & if you're going through a struggle or not. These are helpful tools that can benefit your relationship.

Talk:

This may seem obvious, but many people are more comfortable with keeping their feelings to themselves.

It's important to have open lines of communication, share & be honest with your partner about how you feel.

Establish your intentions:

When starting the conversation, express that you're both coming from a place of love, decide on a topic, and determine a goal for the conversation.

Learn to Listen:

Really HEAR what the other person is saying.

What are their words really trying to tell you?

Be ok with listening to things you don't want to hear:

Your partner may feel completely different than you. Accept that even the same experience is EXPERIENCED differently.

You each deserve a safe space between each other to truly confide in.

Don't interrupt:

Interrupting is a way of saying, "what I have to say, is more important than what you have to say".

If you're afraid of forgetting, have a notebook & take notes.

Listen Actively:

Don't multi-task while talking.

Give all your attention to the conversation.

Ask questions:

Can you please explain what you mean?

Create time:

It's important to check-in daily. Even for just a few mins.

Recap:

Make sure you've understood each other & hug it out. I highly recommend, always ending with showing affection to help break any ice.

This may be hard after some conversations, but it can really help reinforce & maintain your bond.

Consistency:

The more you practice better communication habits, the better you'll become at it.