Communication

Communication is the fuel of relationships.  Recently I have been having issues with communication with my loved ones.  I am not perfect at communication by any means but I know what it takes.  Knowing what it takes doesn't necessarily mean that I do it correctly at all times, but it does help enormously.

Here are some communication rules to follow:

-Don't wait.

Tackle the problem head on.  The longer you wait the more likely you are to resent the person in which you are upset with.

- Swallow your pride

99.9% of the time the issue isn't black and white.  There is almost always grey area.  You have played a part in this issue as well.

- Admit you are wrong first and apologize for it.

Admitting you are wrong first opens the door for the other person to be able to admit their faults.  This also will help them to not feel like the bad guy in the situation.  

- Use phrases like "I feel" instead of "You make me feel"

In all honesty no one can make you feel any way.  You are the one choosing those feelings.   This will also help to not make the person feel like the bad guy.  

- Be completely open and honest.

There is no point in trying to solve a problem if you aren't completely honest and willing to let it all out.  Holding things in or sugar coating them is only going to add fuel to the fire.   The more honest you are the better you will feel and the more likely the problem is to be solved. 

- Say things in a loving way.

Although I am a firm believer of not sugar coating the truth that doesn't mean to use harsh words or attack.  It means being honest.