Whatever the stage or history of the relationship, most people would agree that communication skills are paramount in determining the success of coupledom. Initial stages of together often feeling blissful, and a long term relationship may offer comfort and familiarity, but without the practice of healthy communication, closeness and emotional/mental intimacy cannot be sustained. Healthy relationships need frank and truthful communication.

Relationship communications skills that will save your marriage:

#Top relationship communication skills:

Timing is important:

A relaxed time without distractions is ideal to bring up difficult or sensitive conversations. It might even work better for you and your partner to schedule a time to talk.

Be a good listener:

In order to be a successful communicator in your relationship, first and foremost you must practice active and attentive listening. Active listening involves listening with the sole purpose of understanding what your partner is trying to communicate without worrying about how you will respond. Active listening is also asking for clarifications when needed without interrupting the speaker.

Put yourself in your partner's shoes:

Understanding your partner's perspective and feelings and being able to empathize is undeniably a cornerstone of effective relationship communication. Without understanding, a relationship would be chaotic and would not thrive.

Resolve problems, do not let them build:

Sometimes communication fails when one ignores something difficult that may be on their mind. Issues are resolved through open and honest communication. Ignoring problems will only exacerbate a divide between you and your partner.

Talk in person:

Miscommunications and misunderstandings are minimized when talking in person. Letters, texts, emails, and even phone calls don't fully convey tone or body language and don't have an opportunity for immediate clarification the way talking face to face does.

Have screen free personal connection time:

A common complaint that couples have is that quality time with each other is hijacked by screens. Whether it is smart phones, TV, or computers, ensure that you get quality time with your partner on a daily basis that is free of screens.

Use body language and non-verbal communication to express affection:

Nonverbal communication through loving gestures such as eye contact, a touch of the hand, or even the tone of your voice can enhance the quality of the relationship with your partner. A smile really can say a thousand words!

Pay attention to mental, verbal, emotional, physical and sexual connection:

Pay attention to the different aspects of your connection and strengthen your bond in every way.

Reflect on positive experiences together:

Talk about positive times spent and experiences shared. Enjoy photographs of special moments that you may have captured. Visit positive history together once in a while.

Have date night:

Try to schedule time together away from everyone else. This is your time for connection and communication. Remember to communicate you care about your partner and that they are a very important part of your life.

Be kind:

Be judicious with your word choice. Use 'I' statements instead of 'you' statements. E.g. 'I feel overwhelmed when all the housework is left for me', instead of 'You didn't do the laundry again!'

Learn to forgive and forget:

Do not hold grudges and most certainly do not drag the past into the current argument.

Say things like 'I miss you': Relationships are not exactly made in heaven, but there are ways by which you can make your relationship heavenly. Loving communications are a strong start!

Stay away from blame:

Blame does not lead to empathy or understanding. Stay away from placing blame. Instead, express your feelings about the situation using 'I' statements.

Apologize:

If you feel you are at fault be easy with heartfelt apologies. Express remorse and regret and make it up to your partner.

Be honest:

Have an understanding to always be honest with each other, even when the truth might be difficult to hear and tell. Honesty is the foundation of trust. Trust and honesty are key to a healthy relationship.

Your partner is not a mind reader:

Say what's on your mind and don't expect your partner to guess it. Express yourself concisely and honestly and be open to hearing your partner's side of things.

Healthy Conflict Resolution

Take a break:

Take a few minutes to breathe, step away from the situation, and calm down. Request break from the discussion with your partner before reconvening. Do things that calm you (such as listening to music or talking to a friend) before going back to the conversation.

Process:

After stepping away and calming down a bit, process the conversation and think about what caused the situation. Find clear words to express yourself.

Talk:

Go back to your partner after preparing yourself to calmly express your feelings.

Listen:

Be prepared to listen to what your partner has to say and how they feel. Use your active listening skills.

The tips above will help lay a foundation for healthy communication – an essential relationship skill!