Communication
Communication
Communication is a key factor for sustaining any friendship or relationship. It is not only the way in which you learn about another person’s likes and dislikes, it is the way in which you express yourself to them as well. This component of expression implies an element of sharing and interestingly, the Latin word for ‘communication’ means ‘to share’.
If you are looking to refresh your communication skills with your partner or a friend, start by thinking about their passions in life and their hobbies or interests. Then start by talking about this subject with them. Showing an interest in your friend’s hobby will show them that you are caring, have empathy and that you are genuinely interested in their opinion on the subject too. Next, consider taking them along to an event involving their hobby. Perhaps they really like a specific band and you can get them tickets to see this band live, or maybe they enjoy painting and you can both go along to an art class.
Communication is the basis for all great relationships and that is why it is placed at number one in this article in terms of its importance. One could class communication into two broad categories of ‘verbal communication’ and ‘non-verbal communication’. The verbal element means speaking and expressing your feelings to the other person. Try to always be clear with your friend or partner as to how you are feeling, and your relationship will benefit greatly from this increased level of openness.