1. CHOOSE THE RIGHT TIME TO COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR SPOUSE
Your subject subject may be well-taken, but your timing may be off. I you have something personal from levels one or two to share, don’t unload just as a man walks in the door after spending a hectic day at the office and forty-five minutes on the freeway. If you want to talk with your wife about cutting down on food expenses, don’t begin just as she is serving a meal over which she has slaved. Select a time when your mate can respond pleasantly.
2. DEVELOP A PLEASANT TONE OF VOICE
It isn’t always what you say, but how you say it that counts. It is soothing to be around someone with a soft, calm voice. If you want your mate to enjoy the sound of your voice, make sure you are easy to listen to.
3. BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC
Many misunderstandings arise from muddle talk. Try to think as you speak, and state clearly what you mean. couples can solve the problem of muddled communication by making “a statement of intent.” For example, “I would like to invite the Hilton’s over for dinner Sunday. Do you mind?”
4. BE POSITIVE
In many homes 80 percent of all communication is negative. These families become so used to hearing faultfinding, blaming, judging, name-calling, and other negative elements that such behavior becomes normal. Be less negative and more positive and appreciative.
5. BE COURTEOUS AND RESPECTFUL OF YOUR MATE’S OPINION
You can do this even when you don’t agree. Care as much about his comfort as you do about your won. And be willing to listen. No more than 50 percent of your communication should be spent with your talking.
6. BE SENSITIVE TO THE NEEDS AND FEELINGS OF YOUR MATE
Develop patience and sensitivity in responding to what your mate says. If he hurts, you understand his hurt and even hurt with him. tune into the needs and feelings of fear, anger, despair, and anxiety of your loved one. Likewise, if he is happy over a new development, enjoy his happiness with him.
7. DEVELOP THE ART OF CONVERSATION
A study conducted at Cornell University showed that the more time husbands and wives spend talking with each other, the more likely they are to report a high level of marital satisfaction. Happier husbands and wives just naturally have more to say to one another than miserable ones. Conversation is an art, and opportunities to develop it should be encouraged. Discussion on interesting subjects enriches a relationship.
