How do you feel when your spouse tells you “we need to talk”? Do you get excited? Or do feel a surge of dread, anticipating an unpleasant conversation about what may have gone wrong? Most marriage experts would affirm that communication is key in marriage — but just how can spouses do so effectively? Neal Black, the former Associate Director of FamilyLife Canada, discusses 6 key areas that couples can practice to improve their communication.
Take the next step:
Is your marriage in a rut?
Tools for your marriage
More tips on communicating with your spouse
Return to Communication in Marriage Index Page
Never too many reminders and encouragements on marriage enhancement! Thanks for this great one!
i agree with ruth i am sure we can always use good ways to enhancing our marriage
I agree with expressing ones feelings at the right time. I tried using “I feel ____ because you do ____”. But somehow it goes back to me. He would say “I am ____ to you because you’re ____”. I’m the type who easily gets discouraged. I’m not used to expressing my feelings that when I open up and get shut down, I clam up.
Marie, learning to communicate our feelings is a life-long process isn’t it? I agree it can be difficult especially when our spouse reverts to old habits. But clamming up isn’t a good idea either so I would encourage you to keep trying.