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Communication is essential in any relationship, but it’s not always easy to express your feelings and needs without causing harm.
The good news is, with a few thoughtful strategies, you can learn to communicate in a way that strengthens your connection rather than creating tension.
Here’s how to talk about what you want with your partner, with examples of both good and bad communication:
1. Start with Empathy
Before diving into a conversation, pause and think about how your partner might feel. Approach the discussion with kindness and understanding.
- Bad Communication: “You never care about my feelings.”
- Good Communication: “I understand you’ve been really busy lately, but I feel like we haven’t had much time to connect. Can we spend some time together this weekend?”
Starting with empathy softens the conversation and makes your partner more open to hearing what you have to say.
2. Choose the Right Time and Place
Timing matters. Avoid bringing up sensitive topics when your partner is stressed or distracted.
- Bad Communication: Bringing up an issue right before bed: “Why don’t you ever help around the…
