The Better Relationships Podcast

Ep51 How to Improve Your Marriage Communication Skills

Dr Dar Hawks Season 10 Episode 51

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Unlock the secrets to transforming your marital communication with practical strategies and insights. Ever wondered how small shifts in conversation habits could revolutionize your relationship? In this episode, we promise to equip you with tools to enhance intimacy, trust, and conflict resolution by dismantling common communication pitfalls like criticism and defensiveness. Our discussion guides you through cultivating healthier communication habits, ensuring you and your partner feel heard and understood.

Active listening isn't just a buzzword, it's a cornerstone of effective communication. We break down techniques such as paraphrasing and reflecting emotions, paired with the power of "I" statements, to help minimize misunderstandings and defensiveness. Dive into the unspoken world of nonverbal cues—body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice—and learn how they can either reinforce or undermine your verbal messages. By understanding and refining these skills, you'll build a more empathetic and harmonious marital environment.

Consistency and commitment are key. We emphasize dedication, effort, and the ongoing nature of improving communication skills within marriage. Discover structured problem-solving approaches and the importance of establishing healthy boundaries to maintain a respectful dialogue. As a bonus, explore your relationship dynamics with the five primary relationship needs quiz at needsdrdarhawks.com. By committing to these transformative strategies, you'll forge a stronger, more resilient partnership.

Welcome to the Better Relationships Podcast where Dr. Dar Hawks shares relationship tips and advice to help you be seen, heard, understood, and supported in your relationships.  Taking on tough topics and giving you hope, inspiration, and ideas to experiment with, Dr. Dar Hawks is passionate about creating healthier, happier, and harmonious relationships... 
Because when you are happy in your relationship, the world becomes a better place for all of us.

Welcome to the Better Relationships Podcast where Dr. Dar Hawks shares relationship tips and advice to help you be seen, heard, understood, and supported in your relationships.  Taking on tough topics and giving you hope, inspiration, and ideas to experiment with, Dr. Dar Hawks is passionate about creating healthier, happier, and harmonious relationships... 
Because when you are happy in your relationship, the world becomes a better place for all of us.

Support the show

Take my free Primary Relationship Needs Quiz to discover your dominant, secondary, and shadow Primary Relationship Needs by visiting https://needs.drdarhawks.com. This one thing will help you better understand yourself, your partner, and your relationship, and even improve communication and connection between you and your partner.

Note: The quiz name has changed from Sovereign Relationship Needs to Primary Relationship Needs as of July 2024. Please keep that in mind for podcasts dated before July 2024.

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Speaker 1:

Welcome to the Better Relationships Podcast Cut. Welcome to the Better Relationships Podcast. I'm Dr Dar Hawks, relationship Communication Coach and Heer, and today I am talking about some ways to improve communication in your marriage while also building bridges to connect more deeply with your partner. Effective communication is truly essential for really any marriage, not just a successful one. It helps build intimacy and trust, and it also plays a crucial role in resolving conflicts. When couples struggle with communication, misunderstandings arise, which then leads to emotional distance and increased tension between partners. In this pod, in this podcast, you'll learn common communication issues that couples face, such as criticism and defensiveness. Strategies to improve your communication in marriage, including active listening and using I statements. The importance of empathy and creating a safe space for open dialogue. Tips for maintaining regular check-ins to address concerns proactively and knowing when to seek professional help if communication challenges persist. Improving communication in marriage not only strengthens your relationship, but also deepens the emotional connection that you have. With practical insights and actionable strategies, you truly can transform your communication habits and cultivate a more fulfilling, connected partnership. Here are some typical communication problems that couples face. Communication problems that couples face.

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Number one criticism. This involves attacking your partner's character rather than addressing specific behaviors. For example, saying you always forget to do the dishes shifts blame and can lead to defensiveness and distancing. Number two defensiveness. It's a response often stemming from criticism and it manifests as denying responsibility or counter complaining. This creates a cycle where neither of you will feel heard or validated. Number three stonewalling. This happens when one partner withdraws from the conversation and leaves the other feeling abandoned. Stonewalling can certainly be an emotional escape, but leads to increased disconnection. Number four contempt. This is one of the most damaging communication styles, characterized by mocking sarcasm or disdain. Contempt breeds resentment, erodes trust and can cause the relationship to end over time. Number five isolation. When couples fail to prioritize quality time with each other or neglect each other's emotional needs, they can drift apart emotionally. This isolation can lead to a breakdown in communication and emotional connection. Number six assumptions. Making assumptions about your partner's thoughts, feelings or intentions can lead to misunderstanding, shutting down and miscommunication. It's important to ask questions and ask for clarification and not jump to conclusions.

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Number seven lack of active listening. Simply hearing the words your partner is saying is not enough. Active listening involves fully engaging with them, seeking to understand their perspective without interrupting or forming a response in your mind. Number eight interpreting. Interpreting your partner's words or actions based on your own biases or assumptions can lead to miscommunication and unnecessary conflict, even if you end up being right. It's important to approach conversations with an open mind, a willingness to understand their point of view and openness to truly hear and listen to them. Number nine silent treatment, ignoring or refusing to engage in communication, can be a form of punishment or control. This behavior shuts down any opportunity for resolution or understanding.

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Number 10. Neglecting or being unaware of nonverbal cues. Communication is not solely about the words you speak. Nonverbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, tone of voice, what our arms are doing, what our eyes are doing, all play a crucial role in conveying emotions and intentions. Failing to pay attention to these cues can result in misunderstandings.

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Number 11, avoidance. Choosing to avoid difficult conversations or sensitive topics may seem like an easy way out, but it only postpones the inevitable and allows resentment to build. It's important to address issues head-on, with empathy and a willingness to find common ground. Number 12, thinking it's not important. Dismissing or downplaying the importance or value of a conversation can undermine the relationship and create a sense of invalidation and distancing. Even seemingly minor issues can have a cumulative effect, eroding trust and intimacy over time. Eroding trust and intimacy over time.

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Number 13, interrupting or talking over or taking over Interrupting someone while they're speaking not only shows a lack of respect, but it also hinders the flow of effective communication. It's important to give each other the space and time to express themselves fully. Number 14, jumping to conclusions. Jumping to conclusions without getting clarification can lead to misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict. It's important to ask open-ended questions and actively listen to ensure accurate understanding. Number 15, inflexibility. Being rigid in your views and unwillingness to consider alternative perspectives can hinder constructive dialogue. It's crucial to approach conversations with an open mind and be willing to adapt your views, if necessary in support of your partner. That does not mean you agree fully and can live the same philosophy that your partner does. It just means that you support them in what they're up to.

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Number 16, lack of empathy. Failing to empathize with your partner's emotions or experiences can make them feel invalidated, unsupported and unheard. Showing empathy and validation can go a long way in building trust and fostering effective communication. Number 17, denying help is needed. Denying or dismissing your partner's request for help can create a sense of isolation and resentment. A sense of isolation and resentment. It also builds an intense sense of independence, where your partner will feel like they have to do it all by themselves and eventually you both stop including each other in day-to-day activities or stop asking each other for help or support. It's important to be willing to offer support and assistance when needed and when asked, because this promotes teamwork. Recognizing these common communication issues is crucial for couples seeking to improve their marital bonds and communication. By understanding the negative impact of these behaviors, couples can begin to replace them with healthier communication strategies.

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Cultivating healthy communication habits is not a destination that you go to one time. It is a continuous, moment-to-moment, ongoing process that requires effort and commitment from both partners, but it can significantly strengthen the bond and overall satisfaction in your marriage. Or communication can lead to increased conflict where misunderstandings escalate quickly when communication is ineffective quickly when communication is ineffective. Emotional distance where partners feel disconnected because conflicts remain unresolved. Emotional disengagement can also result in feelings of isolation.

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Lack of alignment Partners may Lack of alignment. Partners may Lack of alignment. Partners may feel their values, beliefs, lifestyle or goals are not aligned, creating disagreement and conflict. Loneliness when communication breaks down. Partners may feel alone even when they're physically together, leading to a sense of isolation, resentment and anger, unresolved conflicts and unmet needs build into resentment and anger over time, which then erodes trust, respect and intimacy.

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Decreased intimacy. Poor communication hinders emotional and physical intimacy, making it difficult for couples to connect on a deeper level. Intimacy starts with healthy communication and connection and understanding and respecting each other. Without that, intimacy cannot thrive. Stagnation Without effective communication, growth and progress in the relationship can be hindered, leading to a stagnant, unsatisfying marriage. By recognizing the impact of these issues and actively working on improving your communication, couples can create a more fulfilling and harmonious partnership, and I'm here to share with you that it's never too late to start, no matter how disconnected you might feel in your relationship.

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Individual differences, such as personality traits or communication styles or lifestyle choices also play a significant role in how couples interact. Couples interact. Factors like stress from work or family can worsen communication issues at home. Different cultural backgrounds or upbringings can influence how partners express themselves and how they understand and hear each other's words. There may be language barriers. Multilingual couples may face challenges in effectively conveying their thoughts and emotions. Previous negative past experiences, such as trauma or unhealthy relationship dynamics, can also impact communication patterns. Interference and meddling from family members or friends also creates tension and taking sides, which then disrupts open communication between partners. Financial stress can lead to heightened emotions and increased conflict, making it even more important for couples to have open lines of communication. Lack of alignment and the inability to be honest about all things money creates issues in a marriage that just don't Creates issues in a marriage that don't just go away. These factors can all contribute to communication breakdowns and misunderstandings, but they don't have to define the health of your relationship going forward. By acknowledging and addressing these challenges, couples can work together to develop effective communication strategies and skills that meet their unique needs and improve communication in marriage. By the way, this may involve seeking professional help, learning new communication techniques or simply committing to being more mindful and empathetic listeners. The effort you put into improving communication is an investment in the long-term health and happiness, not just for yourself, but also for your partner and the relationship. Let's now talk about key strategies for improving communication with your partner. As I've mentioned before, effective communication requires conscious effort and specific strategies to foster understanding and connection. Here are some key approaches to enhance marital communication Active listening, which to me equals empathy.

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It involves fully engaging with your partner's words, emotions and underlying messages. This practice is crucial in building a deeper understanding of each other. Active listening means paying attention not only to what your spouse says, but also how they feel when expressing those thoughts, and paying attention to the nonverbals and asking and inquiring what they're about. This technique helps to validate your partner's feelings and encourages open dialogue and creates a safe environment. Here are some techniques for active listening Paraphrasing Repeat back what your spouse has said in your own words. This demonstrates that you understood what they're saying and what they're trying to convey. Example If your partner shares frustration about work, respond with it sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed with your tasks.

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They'll come back and say, no, that's not what I'm saying and they will clarify, and then you can paraphrase again. Another way is to ask clarifying questions. Encourage further discussion by asking questions that prompt more details. Here's an example Can you tell me more about what specifically made you feel that way in that example or in that situation? This one's really important. I see couples having a hard time with this over 20 years of working with them and it involves allowing awkward pauses just sitting there silently. Sometimes during a conversation there may be moments, or at times during a conversation, there will be moments of silence or pauses. These can be uncomfortable, but they provide space for your partner to gather their thoughts and continue sharing. Here's an example. Here's an example Instead of rushing to fill the silence, give your partner several moments to collect their words, by maintaining eye contact and nodding in encouragement. You could even say it looks like you're processing. I'll sit here and wait until you're ready to share again.

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Another way is to reflect emotions, acknowledge and validate your spouse's feelings by reflecting them back. Here's an example If your partner says that they're sad about a disagreement, if your partner says that they were sad about a disagreement they had with a parent, respond with empathy saying I can really understand why that would make you feel upset, or I can understand why that would make you feel sad. Try to use the same words they used and I recognize that I didn't when I was sharing this example. By actively listening and using these techniques, you can create a deeper connection with your partner and improve communication in your relationship. I also invite you to get better at using I statements. I statements are powerful tools for expressing feelings without placing blame on your partner. They shift the focus from accusations to personal feelings. Here's a tip Anytime you think or say starting a sentence with you. It's time to bite your tongue and transform what you're about to say to using an I statement. The reason why is because using I statements allows you to articulate how you're feeling while minimizing defensiveness in response, and increases your chances of being heard. Here are some examples of effective I statements being heard. Here are some examples of effective I statements.

Speaker 1:

Instead of saying you never listen to me, try I feel unheard when I'm sharing my thoughts. Also, a side note about you never listen to me. Actually, two side notes. Number one never is an absolute. When I work with couples and I hear one or the other say use the word never, we have a dialogue and come up with several examples where it's not the case that it's never, it's not an absolute. So immediately that creates defensiveness. So immediately, that creates defensiveness. The second point I want to make the second point I want to mention about you never listen is that human beings have made the word listen mean taking the action that you said should be taken.

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Listening and following through with an action are two entirely different things, and if it sounds like that is a pet peeve of mine, you are spot on and it comes from my childhood. My parents would say you don't listen, you aren't listening. Well, that's not true. I was listening, I heard what they said. There wasn't a request for me to do anything. There was an expectation that I follow through. So let me say this again Listening does not equal taking action or follow through. They are two different things, as are making a request or an ask to take an action. So be clear when you're communicating. To unpack those three things so that you're clear about what they are. Here's another example.

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You always make me upset Instead of saying that, say, I feel upset when our plans change at the last minute. It causes me angst because I have to reschedule things on my calendar and I'm going to add this as a bonus share with you, I would like to. And then you can continue with saying going forward, I really need to stick to my calendar and if plans change at the last minute, please know that I may not be available when we reschedule because I already have something planned, so we'll just have to find another mutual time to get this done. By framing your feelings in that way, it opens up space for dialogue rather than conflict. And notice that I wasn't making my partner wrong around. I feel upset when our plans change at the last minute. But I was communicating the impact it has when we reschedule or try to coordinate another date.

Speaker 1:

Let's talk about nonverbal communication now. Much of communication occurs through nonverbal signals, like body language, facial expressions and tone of voice. Like body language, facial expressions and tone of voice, being attuned to these cues can significantly improve your interactions. Please understand that nonverbal cues can often convey more than words themselves, but they also can be misinterpreted, which leads to misunderstandings. I'll give you an example from my own life. My husband was answering a question, but he was answering a question with a yes answer verbally, but his head was nodding no. That led me to feel like what is he really saying? Is he saying no? That led me to feel like what is he really saying? Is he saying no? I was paying more attention to the nonverbal cue than I was to the words coming out of his mouth. But before I said anything, I recognized through my conscious awareness I'm getting confusing signals here and said something to the effect of I'm hearing you say yes, but I'm seeing your head nod no. Can you clarify what you're communicating with this? And I avoided a fight or an argument or a disagreement or disappointment. Argument or a disagreement or disappointment. Here are some examples of nonverbal communication cues that sometimes, frankly, get missed Eye contact during conversations, eye rolls during conversations and I want to add that they may get missed, but they also get misinterpreted or create a reaction that they may get missed, but they also get misinterpreted or create a reaction.

Speaker 1:

Back to nonverbal communication cues Using appropriate facial expressions that match the conversation. This requires focus on the conversations, not being distracted or thinking about other things, so that you can be present and you naturally match your facial expressions with the conversation, maintaining open body posture, uncrossed arms, uncrossed arms and facing the person. A little bit of a side note about maintaining open body posture it can be easy to misinterpret when a person does not have open body posture. I'll give you an example from my own life. I have environmental asthma and on days when the air quality is bad, I tend to fold my arms on my chest often and that can lead to misinterpreting my body posture in that I'm not listening, I'm not paying attention or I just don't want to be there, and that's not the case. So that's an example of really clarifying the body posture if it doesn't match up with the message being communicated verbally. Here are some more examples Nodding to show understanding and engagement.

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Be sure to nod, yes or no In this case, and in this example it's going to be nodding to show you understand. In the affirmative Hand gestures to emphasize points physical proximity and personal space. Touch when appropriate, such as a gentle hand on the shoulder, head, tilting to show interest. The appropriate tone of voice and pitch, mirroring the other person's body language. Posture, such as leaning forward to show interest. Facial micro expressions, like a slight raise of the eyebrows. Speed and rhythm of speech, silence and pauses. Physical appearance and dress, use of space and movement, breathing patterns, foot positioning and movement, hand placement and movements and overall body orientation.

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Here are some tips for improving your nonverbal communication skills Pay attention to body language, maintain an open posture and make eye contact. These behaviors signal engagement and openness. Also, here's another tip If you notice the person you're speaking with starts to fold their arms or moves in closer or moves in far away, you may have done that yourself and they're mirroring you. So paying attention not only to their body language but also to yours is very helpful. Secondly, make sure you monitor your tone and pitch of voice. The way you say something and how you say, it can absolutely affect how it's received. Aim for a calm and friendly, supportive tone during discussions. And, lastly, be conscious of your facial expressions. Ensure that your expressions match the message you're conveying, to avoid mixed signals. That requires you being centered, grounded, calm in a neutral space and if you're not, don't have the conversation. Go, take care of you until you can get into that neutral space. Implementing these strategies can lead to a more harmonious marriage by cultivating a deeper understanding between partners. Engaging in these practices regularly will strengthen the communication foundation that is essential for creating intimacy and trust in your relationship your relationship.

Speaker 1:

Let's now talk about practicing empathy and compassion in your conversations. The importance of empathy and compassion cannot be overstated. It is a skill that can be learned. It is something that not everyone knows how to do and when done well, it will enable you to understand your partner's thoughts and emotions, which then lead to deepening the connection you both have. Developing empathy and compassion requires active effort, and here are a few techniques to help you build this skill Active imagination Make a moment to visualize yourself in your partner's situation, like literally put their shoes on, consider their feelings, motivations and challenges. This mental and emotional exercise can help you respond with greater sensitivity and go a long way in improving communication in your marriage Perspective-taking exercises.

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Participate in discussions where each of you shares your viewpoint on a topic or an issue. After one person shares, the other reflects back what they've heard. That ensures clarity and understanding. This is one way to practice empathy in communication. Empathy plays an essential role during disagreements as well. When conflicts come up, it is vital to find common ground. Compromise is not about winning or losing. It's truly about creating solutions that satisfy both of your needs. Consider these strategies for effective compromise.

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Number one brainstorming win-win solutions through common ground. Collaborate to generate multiple options that address both of your concerns. Take turns coming up with ideas and options. Write them down and then you together can deduct the ones that neither of you align with, cross those out and then go through the remaining ones to see which ones truly align closest. For both of you to be satisfied, avoid evaluating ideas too quickly. Focus on the creative brainstorming first. Number two encourage active listening. Ensure that both partners have an opportunity to express their thoughts and emotions without interruption. Be patient when your partner is pausing. Be patient when your partner is pausing. Give them space to finish, especially if your partner is someone who needs time to think and process in the moment. This will create a sense of being heard and valued, which leads to more constructive resolution.

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Number three identify your non-negotiables. Determine the core values or needs that you have that are non-negotiable and that your partner has. By understanding these, you can then focus on finding solutions that honor and respect both of your non-negotiables, while also maintaining alignment. Seek mediation and professional coaching if needed. Sometimes, despite all your efforts, finding a compromise may feel challenging. Finding a compromise may feel challenging. In such cases, involving a neutral third party, such as a relationship coach, can provide guidance and facilitate productive discussions.

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Number five prioritize needs over wants. Get clear about the distinction in the conflict of what you need versus what you want. Identify what is essential for both of you instead of fixating on specific desires. This can help clarify what truly matters. Number six stay open-minded. Approach disagreements with the willingness to adapt your stance. Flexibility encourages cooperative problem-solving rather than adversarial confrontation. Use neutral language. Frame your requests without blame or judgment. Language that emphasizes partnership builds collaboration over division. Partnership builds collaboration over division. By practicing empathy and using effective compromise techniques, you strengthen your communication skills and you build resilience against conflict. These practices create an environment where both of you will feel safe, valued and understood, paving the way for healthier interactions in your marriage.

Speaker 1:

Let's now talk about how to find common ground through Bain's let's now. I'm going to now give you some steps on how to find common ground by brainstorming. Steps on how to find common ground by brainstorming. First and foremost, you want to create the right environment. Choose a calm, neutral space, make sure both of you are ready to engage and establish some basic ground rules for discussion. Number two the initial steps. Oh, and here's a hint, the ground rules are embedded in these steps, so pick the ones that you want to establish for ground rules. The second thing, the second step Each partner states their position clearly. Each of you lists your shared goals and values. Each of you lists your shared goals and values. Each of you will list individual goals and values, and then you both will identify areas of agreement first and put a checkmark near those.

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Number three go into brainstorming. Use mind mapping, write down all the ideas you both come up with, without judgment. Build upon each other's suggestions and focus on quantity over quality initially. The fourth step is finding the intersection points. This is where the common ground lives. Look for overlapping interests, identify shared priorities, make note of mutual concerns and recognize common values.

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Number five solution development. Combine your compatible ideas. Create hybrid solutions. It doesn't have to be an either, or it truly can be a hybrid of, and Explore modifications to existing scenarios and try them out for a temporary trial period and then revisit them using the same process for brainstorming. Number six using the same process for brainstorming. Number six the evaluation process. Review each possible solution, assess the feasibility, meaning, can you both live with it and will you both honor, respect and actually do it, take into consideration any long-term implications and check in on alignment with both partners' needs.

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Number seven implementation. Agree on the specific actions each of you will take and make Agree on the clear timelines that you're committing to, that each of you commit to Define each of your responsibilities, that that you're committing to, that each of you commit to Define each of your responsibilities that you're also committing to and plan in periodic checkpoints on your calendar. And number eight you want to measure success through indicators. You both need to decide and talk about how will we know we've succeeded with this and what do we do when we feel like we're not? Some ideas are both partners feel heard? The solution addresses your core needs, for both of you, it's achievable and practical, and it maintains relationship harmony. The goal here is to find solutions that benefit both of you, not winning the argument.

Speaker 1:

Let's now talk about boundaries. Establishing and respecting healthy boundaries in marriage is crucial for promoting respectful communication is crucial for promoting respectful communication. Boundaries let's now talk about boundaries and the importance of them. Creating and respecting each other's boundaries that are healthy is actually really necessary for promoting respectful communication. Boundaries will help you both understand each other's limits and preferences, which then will allow for more meaningful interactions. Here are some aspects. Here are some key aspects to consider.

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It's essential to be able to express your needs without guilt or fear. You have to communicate your personal needs. Start by identifying your dominant relationship need by taking the five primary relationship needs quiz along with your partner. You can do that at needsdrdarhawkscom. Once you know your dominant need and understand how it operates, you can clearly state your feelings and desires. You can avoid accusatory language that may put you or your partner on the defensive.

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Avoid I already said that Respect each other's boundaries. Respecting each other's boundaries means Not doing the thing that they've asked you not to do, so not doing the thing that they've asked you not to do. Both partners must commit to respecting the established boundaries so that they may create an environment of trust and openness no joking, no sarcasm, no nitpicking or making fun of each other's boundaries. This requires acceptance and validation, and respect and honoring them. You also, as partners, should establish a safe space for open dialogue which creates an environment where both of you will feel safe to discuss openly whatever it is that needs to be discussed.

Speaker 1:

In conclusion, effective communication in marriage requires dedication, a good bit of your time and effort, understanding and consistent practice of key strategies. By implementing active listening, using I statements, being mindful of nonverbal cues and practicing empathy, couples can significantly improve their communication dynamics. The establishment of healthy boundaries and creation of safe spaces for dialogue are fundamental to maintaining respectful and productive conversations. Comes from both partners' commitment to understanding each other's perspectives, needs and feelings and caring about each other enough to do it. Through structured approaches to problem solving, including having clear ground rules, brainstorming techniques and systematic solution development, couples can work together to overcome communication challenges and strengthen their relationship.

Speaker 1:

Improving communication is an ongoing process that requires patience, flexibility and mutual respect. When both of you are invested in building effective communication habits, you lay the foundation for a stronger and more fulfilling marriage. You lay the foundation for a stronger and more fulfilling marriage. I hope this was helpful and I just want to remind you to learn what your dominant relationship need is by taking the five primary relationship needs quiz at needsdrdarhawkscom. Ask your partner to take the quiz as well. Ask your partner to take the quiz as well, and you will learn all about the five primary relationship needs we all have. Which one's your dominant and which one is the one that doesn't bring out the best in you or your partner? Trust me, this will go a long way in helping you improve communication in marriage. Thank you so much for your time and I will see you in the quiz or in the next podcast.

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