Communication is obviously important, but sometimes it is difficult to put into practice.
The following tips are simple ways to develop a more intimate level of communication with the people in your life:
It can be difficult to relate to people on a deeper level, but if you learn to open yourself up and discuss your feelings honestly, others will learn to understand you better.They will also begin to be more open with you.Unfortunately, it is often much easier to just say what you think others want to hear.If you fear hurting their feelings, or risking criticism, many times you will avoid expressing your real feelings.People cannot react to a situation the way you hope they will, if they do not know how you really feel or what you expect from them.
Use Tact
On the other hand, opening up does not mean blasting the other person with pent up criticism, either.You can discuss delicate situations tactfully.Many times people do not realize they are doing something that upsets you unless you tell them.They cannot read your mind.They may have no idea that they have done something to offend you, so proceed carefully.Rather than attacking the person, sit him or her down and gently explain the source of the problem, giving the other person a chance to respond.
Admit your own Mistakes
Being open and honest also includes admitting when you are wrong.This is one of the most difficult aspects of communication.Nobody likes to be wrong.However, if you hurt someone you care about, you owe it to that person to try to make it right.How can someone believe that you care for him or her deeply, if you cannot bother to own up to actions, which have caused that person pain?This does not mean tossing out a quick, "Sorry about that."It means admitting you were wrong and sincerely apologizing, to the other person's satisfaction.
Become a More Intimate Listener
Do you really listen when others attempt to express their feelings?You may hear the words, but do you fully understand what the other person is trying to express?When involved in an important discussion, it is a good idea to repeat back what the other person said, in your own words.This way, if you have misinterpreted the other person's point, he or she has a chance to correct the misconception quickly.This level of communication not only helps keep misunderstandings from being blown out of proportion, it also helps you get to know and understand people on a deeper level.
Compromise
There are times when no amount of discussion will provide a resolution.In this case, agree to disagree and move on.Do not continue to do battle over a situation that has no mutually beneficial conclusion.If it is a serious matter, you may have to reconsider the relationship, but in many cases, such situations are mere matters of opinion.If you truly care for someone, you will not be willing to end a relationship over a simple difference of opinion.
When communication is lacking, relationships begin to feel strained, distant. By working toward a deeper level of communication, you can strengthen the bond between you and the important people in your life.
