Effective communication is an important life skill that enables us to better understand and connect with the people around us. It allows us to build respect and trust, resolve differences and foster environments where problem solving, caring, affection and creative ideas can thrive. Lack of effective communication inadvertently leads to conflict and frustration in both professional and personal relationships.

We start practicing our communication skills even before we begin walking.

We start practicing our communication skills even before we begin walking. A baby communicates by crying, and then gradually learns to mimic his/her parents’ speech. Finally, the child realizes that certain speech patterns evoke different responses. It takes time, effort and patience to develop effective communication skills and the more effort you place in doing so, the more instinctive your skills will become.

Remember that communication is collaborative, not competitive

Good communication skills encompasses listening, non-verbal communication, stress management and emotional awareness. In order to effectively communicate, you must:

• Clearly organize your thoughts in your mind before sharing them. The only way to properly share your invaluable ideas is by first shaping them coherently.
• Remember that communication is collaborative, not competitive. Communication is a two-way process that involves the exchange of ideas; if made one-way, the exchange is prevented and this leads to frustration.

Adequate knowledge of communication skills significantly improves your ability to exchange thoughts and ideas with others.

The Stop Guessing for couples tool provides couples at any stage in their relationship conversation starters to be able to communicate more effectively – this will help couples improve their relationship and address issues before they start.