Humans are naturally social beings, and the foundation of that is communication. More than anything, good and effective communication with others is the key to a long-term relationship, be it in a professional or social setup. The nuances and answers associated with quality communication can seem daunting, and the results – unattainable. Yet, with a bit of practice and willingness, the task of improving communication becomes much easier. It will ensure safe casual dating or long-term relationships.

There are no wrong or right answers as we all behave and react differently to the various situations we encounter in our casual dating or serious long-term relationships. The trick is to have an open mind, which is willing to try. After trying, you figure out what works for you, then refine that, and make it a part of your dating life. It will greatly improve your current and any other future relationships.

Importance of Healthy and Effective Communication in Relationship

Communication is defined as a lot of things (depending on the context). But a relevant definition that fits this article can be: ‘the successful conveying or sharing of ideas and feelings’. Communication is more than just talking. You might be a great talker, but you have to also be an equally good listener to be a skillful communicator. Communication is fundamentally about healthily expressing your ideas and feelings, being a good listener to your partner when they do the same, and comprehending what the other person has to say when talking.

Communication is also about paying attention to non-verbal cues. We also communicate using non-verbal signs. Paying attention to these can help us to be better partners. Effective communication should have more verbal than non-verbal means, but being aware of the non-verbal cues will go a long way in helping you improve communication with casual daters or those in a committed relationship.

As human beings, we all have a strong underlying need for establishing connections and belonging. Building social relationships enhance our happiness because spending time with friends, colleagues, or loved ones builds positive vibes, which are a key component of happiness. In a fast-moving world, where our lives are becoming more digital with each passing day, we can easily forget how to communicate, and it can ultimately lead to the collapse of our physical, real-world relationships. Let’s take a quick look at a few points you can practice to improve communication between you and your partner!

• Know Your Partner’s Communication Style

Before you start working on improving communication in your relationship, you need to know that not everyone has the same communication style. Some people like to talk, some prefer physical touch, and others are more visual. You probably know your preferred communication style, but what about your partner? Verbal communication is the best and most effective, but the above mentioned non-verbal communication cues are linked to LOVE LANGUAGES. Ask your partner what their love language is, and they will be glad you made an effort to know. Doing something that is part of their love language is a great way to communicate and improve intimacy. It also applies to when you’re still casually dating, and maybe you want him or her to like you more. Once you know your partner’s communication style, chances are you will effectively convey the intended message.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions

Communication is not only limited to talking about each other’s days. It’s about having the ability to dig deep and getting to know your partner as much as you possibly can. However, it’s not always easy to open up, especially for those who have never been in a comfortable space where they talk freely about their feelings.

Asking open-ended questions offers your partner an opportunity to share more if they choose to do so. Always try to keep in mind that not everyone will open up quickly and easily. Try to be patient with your partner. It’s not necessary to make every conversation a heart to heart, deep conversation. Strike a balance between the serious and lighthearted stuff. It will ensure that your partner gets comfortable talking to you.

• Don’t Try To Read Minds

Sometimes you can instinctively tell just by looking at someone what/how they may be feeling. It’s not always easy to do this, and as much as we might want to be mind-readers, we aren’t and shouldn’t have to be ones. There should be little room for assumptions. So, if you’re not sure how your partner is feeling, ask them. If you’re the one holding back and expecting your significant other to read your mind, take a moment to appreciate that your partner is making an effort by asking you what’s going on. Both of you should be honest about how you feel to the best of your abilities while healthily expressing these emotions.

• Set Aside Time to Talk

Communication breakdown can sometimes be caused by a lack of time to talk. A major reason for getting into a long-term relationship is that we want someone to acknowledge us and be heard. When it doesn’t happen, one could end up getting frustrated and might start resenting their partner. This is why it’s important to set aside time when you and your partner talk and listen to one another without judgment. This time will help you settle any ongoing disputes and prevent future ones. A relationship is about providing a service (companionship, time, love, support, etc.). Through talking, you get to say what you expect, and you get to hear the same. Talking ensures that both parties are on the same page about expectations and how the relationship is progressing.

• Avoiding Over-Communication in Relationship

Usually, we tend to not communicate enough rather than too much. But there can be too much of a good thing. As we already know, too much of anything is not healthy. Nowadays, especially with social media and other communication platforms, we might fall into the over-communication trap. Some couples can constantly be in touch via social media throughout the day, even when they get to see each other at the end of the day. Granted, there are no set rules as to ‘how much’ communication is healthy in any relationship, be it a casual dating or long-term relationships. If you as a couple find something that works for you, there is no need to change it.

However, if you do feel that you and your partner are over-communicating, and you would like to change that, have an honest discussion and ask yourselves why you need to be in touch. What is it that makes you want to reach out and connect with the other person? What is the motivation behind the text message you send or the call you make? Answering all these questions will help you streamline your communication and give you time to miss your partner. It might seem unromantic, but it can help you cultivate a healthy communication habit.

Winding Up – Communication in Relationship Is a Skill!

The good thing about communication is that it is a skill, and skills can be nurtured and grown. With a bit of consistency, trial and error, and an open mind, you can learn how to be a good communicator and practice it. Always work together with your partner, develop your pattern on how you can maintain healthy communications, and always be on the same page. Be honest, straightforward, kind, and thoughtful as you convey your messages and ideas.

Ready to date and commit? Good communication is an essential factor in a relationship, whether a committed relationship or one based on casual sex. It gives you time to know each other better and connect at a deeper level. If you are still a single man seeking women or a woman seeking men, head over to the US fastest-growing online dating website, Wickedlist, and find the ideal match for free!