DO: Get off your cell and give your full attention.
Yes, you can scroll through your feed and still listen. But it’s more important that the person you’re communicating with feels heard. That’s not going to happen until you put down your device and really take in what’s being said.
DON’T: Discuss serious matters over texts or email.
Things get lost in translation. You really can’t pick up someone’s real tone by messaging. Speak to them in person and understand what’s really going on.
DO: Spend some time apart.
As they say, distance makes the heart grow fonder. It’s good to take breaks from each other. It keeps you from getting on each other’s nerves and it gives you experiences to talk about. It’s also a good way to build trust by giving someone space.
DON’T: Name call during an argument.
If you’re at a point where you feel like you don’t have control of yourself, walk away. Because words can create wounds that are hard to heal. Arguments may be inevitable, but they don’t have to be damaging.
DO: Ask for what you want.
Communication is the make or break of a relationship. Never assume someone knows what you’re thinking. It may sometimes be difficult to state what you need because you may not get it, but have the courage to do so.
DON’T: Compare your relationship to anyone else’s.
Just like no two people are the same, no relationship is the same. The two of you together are special.
