The basic rule for communication is to "Say what you mean and mean what you say". We very often say things we do't mean, and that can get us into trouble.

Improving communication takes patience, and you need to set aside the time to do it. Communication is as much to do with listening as talking, so practice for 2 minutes listening to your partner, and repeating back what you heard. You will be amazed how often you change a word or remember something wrongly. Ask your partner to do the same for you. Keep your own score, and try to improve your listening.

When you both think your listening has improved and you can pay close attention, set yourselves time each day to talk about the following topics:

   1. Things about the other person that you are pleased to know or are grateful for.
   2. Information you want to tell the other.
   3. Anything that happened that puzzles you.
   4. Any requests for things to be done differrently.
   5. Talk about hopes and dreams that you have. 

Keep this up and your knowledge of each other will improve your understanding and the relationship will improve too. If you need a bit of help, get in touch with one of us.