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Discover the essential keys to good communication to improve relationships: from listening and speaking tips to creating a trusting atmosphere. Learn how to convey messages clearly and understand others better for stronger connections.
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What is Communication? • Good communication takes place when the message you want to convey is received and understood the way you intended so that the relationship grows as a result.
Solomon on communication • Proverbs chapters 15 to 18
Have good eye contact. Give focused, undivided attention. Watch your body language. Listening keys
Listen to the message behind the words. Respond appropriately. Listening keys
More listening keys • Rephrase when not clear. • Try to understand the other person’s viewpoint. • Don’t prejudge or mind-read. • Be patient. • Don’t defend yourself.
Listen empathetically. Ask appropriate questions. Ask open-ended questions. Still more listening keys
Create trust and safety. Keep secrets and private matters confidential. Still more listening keys
Choose or set the right atmosphere. Choose the right time and place. Think before you speak. Speaking keys
Don’t resurrect dead issues. Don’t talk too much. Don't put words into the other’s mouth. Speaking keys
Don’t be too quick to switch topics. Don’t be artificial or superficial. Avoid interrupting. More speaking keys
Have a pleasant tone of voice. Don’t use “put-downs” or belittling remarks. Don’t use generalizations like “You never...” or “You always...” More speaking keys
Still more speaking keys • Use “I” messages and not “You” messages. • Be sensitive to the other person’s feelings and needs.
Still more speaking keys • Draw the other person into the conversation. • Don’t attack or use abusive language. • Control anger and other negative emotions.
Still more speaking keys • Speak the truth in love. Eph.4:15 • Sleep on some things. They may not seem so important tomorrow.
Still more speaking keys • Talk about the other person’s interests. • Be liberal with compliments, and stingy with criticism.
Conclusion • Remember that good communication takes place when the message you want to convey is received and understood the way you intended so that the relationship grows as a result.