Since your partner is not a mind reader, your approach might trigger a misunderstanding. The words we say are only a portion of our overall communication. Often in communication; we get so lost in the words that we forget to also pay attention to the person saying those words. Empathy is such an integral skill and is key to understanding in a relationship.
A great place to start is telling your partner, “What I need from you is understanding.” But don’t stop there. Encourage your partner to be more open.Not everyone knows how to put their ideas and feelings into words and this reality sometimes becomes a challenge especially in a romantic relationship. First of all, how can you understand someone if they don’t even know how to express their thoughts and share their innermost feelings? Give your partner time to explain before reacting.When you think that your partner did something that made you feel angry, upset or disappointed, give them a chance to explain. Hear their side of the story and don’t be quick on your judgment. Sometimes, people in a relationship tend to choose anger and react to damaging emotional outbursts before actually talking to their partner.
Communication is key in any relationship, and understanding your partner is essential for a healthy and strong connection. Here are some tips on how you can better understand your significant other:
“You may still disagree, but your approach to talking about how you disagree becomes more clear and your partner feels more respected,” Ezell-Whiddon adds. While you may feel like life is too busy to sit down and have a chat, just remember, not every conversation has to be deep and meaningful. One of the most important things you can do to build a strong and healthy relationship is to understand yourself first. There are a few key things to keep in mind when trying to see things from your partner’s perspective.
Sick of boring and mundane conversations with your husband? Take this mini-challenge and have better conversations with your husband in 5 simple steps. Understanding your partner means knowing who they are, what their values are, what is important to them and what is meaningful in their lives.
Listen actively
In turn, this can help you to build a stronger and more supportive relationship. For example, a partner who avoids eye contact or seems tense might be feeling insecure, while someone who frequently touches you or leans in close might be feeling particularly affectionate. While verbal communication is undoubtedly important, nonverbal cues can often provide valuable insight into someone’s true feelings. It can be difficult to really know what another person is feeling, thinking, or intending.
One of the most important things you can do to understand your partner is to listen actively. This means giving them your full attention when they are speaking, and really trying to understand their perspective. Avoid interrupting or jumping to conclusions, and instead, focus on what they are saying.
Show empathy
Empathy is crucial in any relationship. Try to put yourself in your partner’s shoes and imagine how they might be feeling. By showing empathy, you are demonstrating that you care about their emotions and are willing to support them through difficult times.
Ask questions
Don’t be afraid to ask your partner questions if you don’t understand something. Clarifying their thoughts or feelings can help prevent misunderstandings and strengthen your bond. Make sure to ask open-ended questions that encourage them to express themselves fully.
Pay attention to non-verbal cues
Non-verbal communication, such as body language and facial expressions, can often reveal more about how your partner is feeling than their words. Pay attention to these cues and try to interpret them in the context of your conversation. This will help you better understand their emotions and reactions.
In conclusion, understanding your partner is a continuous process that requires patience, empathy, and active listening. By following these tips, you can improve your communication and strengthen your relationship with your significant other.
