Are you a good communicator? It depends, right? You and I both know what we are trying to say but sometimes the receiver just doesn’t get it. This can be a real rub, especially in marriage and life in general.
Last Thursday evening at Re|engage the topic was focused on communicating in order to “Grow in the adventure of knowing and being known.” The point is to help move couples where they can grow together relationally, spiritually and sexually. During the course of the evening, we discussed how we communicate as well as roadblocks to open communication.
Throughout the course of the evening, each couple shared ways that they communicated well and not so well.
I shared these two points:
- There is an importance in asking for clarification during a discussion or argument. One thing I typically ask my husband is, “What do you mean by that?” This allows him to refocus and regroup in order to better explain exactly what he is trying to communicate. This also ensures that I understand exactly what he is trying to share.
- Something else I have found to be helpful, especially when things escalate which can happen because of miscommunication is to say things such as, “This is what I think you said. Is that what you meant to say?” “What did you mean to say?” The point being is this: Repeating back what was said or how it has been interpreted is helpful for clarification.
Be blessed! ~ Carrie
Where I’m linking up.
Karen, the next best thing to says
There are so many truths in this piece of writing #thinkingoutloudthursday@_karendennis
Carrie says
Thank you for reading, Karen!
Laura says
I agree that communication is SO important in a marriage. You would think couples who have been married for a long time would have this skill down pat, but I think we all struggle with having our feelings heard. I’m trying to be a better listener. Great post, Carrie!
Carrie says
Thank you, Laura! These are my favorite to write for sure. I appreciate you reading it.
Sierra says
These are such great points! It’s so important to communicate effectively. We’ve had several situations happen where something is miscommunicated and asking for clarification has really helped. Sierra~Beautifully Candid
Carrie says
Thank you, Sierra! I’m grateful that you read this post.
Rebecca Jo Vincent says
Marriage is hard because I feel like I’m a good communicator in public & general – but you get those relationship where you’re so comfortable, you forget about basic communication – it can be harder for marriage with that… Love this reminder though
Carrie says
Yes, being so comfortable makes us sloppy doesn’t it?
Tracy Gnann says
It is not easy. It takes an effort. My husband and I do all we can to keep communication open. #trafficjamweekend
Carrie says
Marriage is always work but all good things require effort for sure.
Shelly @ The Queen in Between says
A local church is going to be hosting this study soon….I really hope to join. Communication is so hard but so necessary and getting it right can make all the difference!
Carrie says
I highly recommend it! The church in Dallas that started is called Watermark. If I thought we could have real community there, it would our church but the distant is just a little too far.
Sarah @ Foxy's Domestic Side says
Those aren’t such good points. I know I use to be horrible at communication and Mr. was the one that broke that bad cycle. I am loving reading all of these and ways to I improve.
Carrie says
Thank you for reading, friend. I so blessed to know these posts are helpful.
Julie says
Great tips! I agree that communication is very important in a marriage. Communication makes a marriage stronger. Without it, marriage can dwindle. You need communication verbally, emotionally and romantically. I just wrote on my blog ways to keep the love flame alive. 🙂
Carrie says
Hi Julie! So thankful you read this post. I’m headed over to your blog!
Miz Helen says
Thanks so much for sharing your awesome post with us at Full Plate Thursday. Have a great week and come back soon!
Miz Helen