Communication is defined as the exchange of thoughts, messages and ideas. However, not all communication is effective communication. Effective communication leads to certain desired intent and effect. It leads to consensus and agreement on issues. Effective communication is a key pillar of any strong and healthy relationship. It is a tool that can be used to nurture and fix a relationship. What are the components of effective communication? You need to have the right communication at the dating applications. Dating sites for seniors are available separately for the communication with the senior people. Effective communication is the key for the people to have the best results. The meeting of the needs and requirements is possible for the individuals.

Listening To Your Partner

Listening is a key constituent of effective communication. Listening makes your spouse feel heard and appreciated. He or she can therefore express his or her feelings more openly. In instances of misunderstanding, questioning your spouse for clarification is important. It ensures that wrong assumptions are avoided. You should not engage in selective listening. Sometimes in a discussion, you may choose to listen to only what you believe is right and disregard the rest. Listen actively without thinking about what you will say next while your spouse is talking to you.

Observing Your Body Language

Observing your body language is also very important. Crossing your arms may seem like you are being defensive. Lack of eye contact may mean that you are not interested in what your spouse is saying. Speech is only one part of communication. Whereas gestures & body language act as non-verbal communication. While talking with your spouse, face them, smile and maintain eye contact. Mimicking your spouse’s posture may also encourage open communication. Your body language should portray love and respect and positive openness. Good body language will encourage your spouse to openly communicate.

Your Spouse’s Body Language

Also, observe your spouse’s body language and mood. These act as cues to understanding what your partner is trying to communicate. Your spouse may say, “I’m fine, nothing’s wrong”. However, your spouse may have his or her arms crossed or his or her eyes teary. The non-verbal communication in this case reveals your partner’s real feelings. Body language may reveal emotion or feeling subconsciously without your spouse realizing it.

Time To Think Before You Speak

To communicate effectively with your spouse, you should take time to think before you speak before and during conversations. Your spouse may have angered you. Taking some time off to cool down before any discussions ensures that you have a clear mind and not clouded with feelings of anger or annoyance. During conversations, you should ensure that you are speaking with love and care. Projecting anger may lead your spouse to be defensive. This will most definitely act as a hindrance to fix a relationship.

Having A Joint Vision/Purpose

Having a joint vision or purpose ensures that you both walk in the same direction in your relationship. You should have discussions with your spouse on key issues relating to your relationship. For example, after discussing and agreeing that you will spend your money in a certain way, arguments and conflicts relating to finances are less likely to ensue.

Open communication is important in any relationship. Opening up to your spouse in an environment of honesty and respect is essential. You should not assume that he or she automatically knows what you want or what you are thinking. Hinting should also be avoided as it may open doors for miscommunication and misjudgment. Focus on the use of ‘I’ rather than ‘you’ during confrontations. These focuses blame away from your spouse, leaving less room for him/her to be defensive.

Effective communication also involves appreciation and compliments. You should openly express your feelings of love and appreciation for your spouse. Think about how special you feel when your spouse tells you “You are handsome/ beautiful” or “I love you”. Expressing positive emotions to your spouse evokes a conducive environment to fix a relationship.

Learn and understand your spouse’s way of communicating. Different people have different ways of communicating. You may have no problem with telling your spouse “I love you”. Whereas your spouse’s way of saying this may be through physical means such as hugs, kisses, flowers and gifts. When you understand your spouse’s way of communicating, then you should know how to set your expectations.

Effective communication is a key factor in maintaining and even to fix a relationship. As you may not always come to a consensus on a discussion, choose your battles. Agreeing to disagree is not a sign of poor communication.