How to Coach Yourself and Others Coaching With Meta Communication | Page 76

Five Easy Steps to Better Communication
by Jane Collingwood - February 27, 2007
Being able to express yourself clearly and being able to listen well can help
you avoid a great deal of stress in your closest relationship. Unfortunately, we
are more likely to communicate ineffectively with our partner just at the time
when we most need to get our point across. In fact, communication itself often
is a major source of difficulty.
When we feel pressured, we may not keep our partner up to date. Often we
fail to listen properly because we are preoccupied. But effectively
communicating our feelings and ideas can prevent unnecessary
misunderstandings and tensions. It’s a good idea to try to open up channels of
communication as much as possible. You might need to look actively for time
to talk with your partner, such as during car trips or washing dishes.
Effective communication becomes even more crucial during high-stress times
such as holidays. Little things can seem much bigger on important days which
come with high expectations.
Mak HH