Effective Communication Number One Skill Listening

Listening to your partner is one of the most important aspects of being in a relationship. It is the most important and yet one of the most difficult skills to learn. This is true for everyone in all relationships. Communication is an integral part of society. We communicate with friends, family and lovers.

So no matter matter what relationships you have, everyone can benefit from brushing up on effective communication skills. For this article, intimate relationships are the focus so that is what we'll be referring to here, but keep in mind that the information and skills discussed, can be used effectively in any of your relationships.

A simple exercise you can do when communicating with your partner is to paraphrase what your partner is telling you so that he / she can correct any misunderstandings. Paraphrasing also shows that you are focused on your partner. Active listening makes your parter feel good because it shows that you really care.

Another tip to remember is to listen with your heart and respond with your head. Listening with your heart is associated with empathy. You are putting yourself in your partner's shoes. It shows that you understand where he / she is coming from. Answer with your head by thinking things through so you do not end up saying something you do not mean. Many problems could have avoided in couple communication if you did not blurt out unkind things that you'll regret saying later.

The more you can learn about your partner, the more successful your relationship will be. Work everyday at communicating better, learning more and listening better. It will be worth the effort!