A simple way to improve all of your relationships.
Have you ever had trouble in relationships? Has anyone you know ever had relationship issues?
Do you know what the number one predictor for divorce and other failed relationships is?
It is not money. It is poor communication.
Poor communication is caused by failure to listen. If you cannot stop talking and listen, you will compromise every relationship you have. Your relationship with your children, your coworkers, your friends, your boss, and your significant other.
Active listening is the cure for poor communication. When you want to communicate with anyone, try these steps.
- Eliminate all distractions. Turn off all personal electronic devices and any other background noise.
- Invite the other person to sit down. Sitting when communicating improves the other person’s impression of your communication skills.
- Make eye contact. Eye contact lets the other person know he is the center of your attention and interest.
- Let the other person speak first. You might begin by asking a question. “How do you feel about ______ ( a certain issue)?” Bite your tongue when you are tempted to interrupt!
- When he finishes speaking, ask one or two follow up questions. Show you are truly interested in what he has said to you.
- When it is your turn to speak, repeat the main point the other person has stated calmly and lovingly. “What I’m hearing you say is that my lateness drives you nuts. Is that right?” Keep repeating this step until you get the message right.
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If your relationships have suffered due to communication, this communication technique will probably improve your relationships. The more you practice it, the more skilled you become with active listening. And the more you improve your listening skills, the more your communication skills and relationships improve. Active listening enables you to have healthy relationships with others.
Parents, listen actively to your children as soon as they can talk. Role model active listening so they become active listeners when they get older!
Adult children, listen to your parents when they speak to you. Listening is one way to let them know you care about them. Especially on Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
Improve your relationships with active listening!
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