5 tips to improve communication in relationships

Harvard researchers established that relationships are a key factor in happiness in people's lives. Harmony in a relationship directly depends on the built communication between a man and a woman. If there is a problem in communication department, then problems in the relationship simply can't be avoided.

Here are 5 simple tips from family psychologists on communicating better in your relationship:

1. Define personal boundaries and don't overstep them

Everyone should have their own personal space. That applies not only to those who are single, but also to people who are in a relationship. We all have our hobbies, opportunities, and values. There is no need to be afraid to set these very boundaries. The fact that you will sometimes spend time alone will help you understand each other better. That way you will know precisely what your partner is willing to share with you, and what they are carefully trying to hide. For instance, for some people, threesomes are taboo, while for others they are an integral part of their sex life.

2. Rely on facts, not products of your imagination

There are unbiased facts, and there are far-fetched and bizarre theories made up by you personally. For example, you complain that your girlfriend is constantly being late. Is that really the case? Has she never ever arrived on time? It turns out that your reproaches are not quite justified. Before you get to your other half with another lecture, think about how you can smooth that out and avoid fighting over it. You might say, for instance, that you worry a lot about her when she's late.

3. Stop criticizing your partner

Constant criticism in relationships is turns to be the cause of diseases and decrease in life expectancy. The conclusion reached by scientists from Lafayette College in Pennsylvania. Professor Jamil Bokala and his team found that criticism between partners is followed by continuous stress, that in turn adversely affects health.

4. Get used to hearing and listening

The lack of such a seemingly simple skill often leads to relationship discord. Listen carefully to what your partner has to say. Be patient and don't interrupt. Put aside gadgets and any other items and try to actually hear what they are trying to convey to you. Even if you fundamentally disagree, don't interrupt and let them finish. When you two have spoken your mind, it's a good idea to ask each other questions. This way you will make sure that you were heard and understood one another.

5. Be honest

Strong relationships can only be built on the honesty and sincerity of partners, not on lies and manipulations. It's not that hard to tell the truth, really. The main thing is to always stay true to this principle.

Psychologists believe that these rather simple skills will contribute to building a happy and healthy family relationship. Begin integrating them right now, even if you haven't met the one yet.