5 Truths To Help You Radically Transform Communication In Your Relationship
By Debbie Manigat
My husband and I have been together for nine years now and I can’t wait to celebrate our ten year anniversary! We dated for three years, were engaged for two, and have been married for four… yeah there was some serious courtship going on there and deep, deep reflection because we wanted to make sure that this was a “forever type of love” and not just two hopeless romantics “infatuated with love”. As I reflect on how we’ve made it this far, I can honestly say that one thing sticks out is- sincere communication.
We promised each other from the beginning, no matter how bad the fights, how crazy the in-laws, or how we may grow and change that we’d always talk and share how we felt. As a result, I’ve come to identify five core communication truths that not only get us through our daily life, but that I also think will help you and your special someone in your walk of love.
5 Truths to Transform your Communication:
1.) Give your marriage attention on a daily basis- at least 15 minutes of meaningful dialog. The focus of this dialog should be on your feelings about each other and your life together- NOT about what happened at work, what some crazy driver did on the highway, or what’s going on in politics, etc.
2.) Be curious about each other and give your relationship the same priority and attention you gave it when you were first dating- ask lots of questions. Babe, do you still like going to…? Do you want to do something different this year for the holidays? Do you want to try new things in the bedroom? Do you like it when I… (you fill in the blank and have fun!)
3.) Be willing to self- disclose by sharing your innermost thoughts and most private experiences. This is where your outside life comes in. Share how you really feel about your co-workers and boss. Share how you feel about the presidential race without worrying about being judged one way or another; share what’s new with the in-laws or a new embarrassing moment.
4.) Good communication happens when you choose to make your primary goal understanding rather than being understood. This is one of the hardest parts of communicating to a spouse- especially if you are in the midst of a heated argument. I know firsthand that I always want my husband to understand where I’m coming from, but in the end that usually backfires as if I’m not listening to him or understanding his point of view. So I’ve learned that it’s best to make my primary goal to listen and be understanding, once he realizes how open I’m am, he will in turn give me the same respect.
5.) If problems still continue, seek counseling before they become too overwhelming or seem irreparable. There’s always hope and healing in matters of the heart; don’t give up, seek the help you need to make sure you both are satisfied.
Debbie Manigat is a Writer, Marriage Mentor/ Counselor, and co-owner of Divine Motivation, a Faith-Based Lifestyle Empowerment Firm… Follow her @DMotivation or “like” them on Facebook: Divine Motivation, LLC. Their organization website is www.divinemotivationllc.com
Hey everyone! I'm back from Maternity Leave and happy to announce that I had a baby girl named Maleah : ) Thank you for your comments and support. Please check out our new stomping grounds at dmempowers.com or follow us @dm_empowers
Remember, communication with your mate is not easy, but well worth the concentration when trying to be intentional with your relationship, spouse, and overall happiness… more articles to come soon… I love BlackLoveandMarriage.com- can't get enough! Peace & Blessings, D. Manigat
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I am in the habit of always asking couples who have celebrated over 15 years together, what is the secret? 100% of the answers are always "communicate". However, I've noticed they never go further than that. I believe all couples communicate differently than the next. This article gave the core ingredients for couples to effectively communicate when you communicate your way. Great article! Much success to you!
Thank you for your comments and yes- I know I'm very late but I took a "mommy hiatus" for maternity leave : ) We have a beautiful baby girl now and a new website: http://www.dmempowers.com... Also, follow us at our new twitter @dm_empowers Thanks again and many blessings to you and your fam!
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Thanks for reading and please feel free to share with others!
Great information. I wish it was that easy!!!!!
Great read!