What if we told you that talking is not the key to communication but rather it's listening and most importantly, active listening.
Active listening is a communication technique that could be very useful in your romantic relationship.
Active listening involves paying close attention to what your partner is saying and responding in a way that shows that you are hearing your partner.
This will help you understand your partner's point of view, and help defuse arguments or resolve conflicts. Remember, when you are actively listening, the point isn't always to respond. You shouldn't just be waiting for your turn to speak after your partner. Rather, you are paying attention to what your partner is saying, and you are responding in a way that shows that you are listening.
Active listening is a practiced skill, so it takes hard work to get good at it. You may find yourself faltering from time to time.
For example, if you find yourself getting distracted, instead of berating yourself, say something like, "I'm sorry, I'm getting distracted. Can you please repeat that?"
Acknowledging an active listening mistake to yourself and your partner will help build trust in your relationship. When your partner knows that you are really listening to them, it creates a deeper connection. Active listening takes practice, but it is worth the effort.
Here are some tips for improving your ability to actively listen.
1) Make eye contact and maintain good posture.
2. Don't interrupt and let your partner finish speaking before you respond.
3. Pay attention to your partner's body language. Using aggressive stances or negative facial expressions can make it very difficult for your partner to open up to you.
4. Ask questions. This shows that you are interested in learning more about your partner’s point of view.
Communication goes both ways, you know! It's not just about chattering away. It's about really listening and getting where the other person is coming from, and then responding in a way that makes them feel heard and connected. So, the next time you find yourself in a conversation, remember that talking isn't the main thing. It's all about lending an ear.
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