Families sometimes have trouble communicating effectively. This can be for any number of reasons like an old grudge or just avoiding awkward confrontations. Communication is key to the happiness and stability of any family. Taking a few steps will help your family to understand each other better, and get you all on the right track to becoming a more cohesive family unit.
Eliminate Distractions
The first step is to eliminate all distractions when having an important or emotional conversation. This means turning off the television and putting away or silencing mobile devices. The focus needs to be solely on the people taking part in the conversation. This will improve understanding and family communications immensely. Make sure you listen to what the other person is saying and that you take time to focus solely on them.
Confirm What Was Just Said
Get all family members into the habit of confirming what someone just said during a talk. This means quickly summarizing the point that was just made in different words. Confirming what was just said will encourage everyone to listen closer instead of just waiting to speak again. It also ensures every message is accurately understood by the other people in the family, and that no miscommunication ensues.
Avoid Sarcasm and Judgmental Language
Avoid using sarcasm and judgmental language during tense or serious conversations. Sarcasm can be easily misinterpreted, and judgmental language will make other family members defensive and could shut down the entire conversation. According to a divorce attorney in Anchorage AK, communicating in this way can lead to more fights or the need to have an in between when having an intense conversation with your spouse. Remain constructive, positive, and non-judgmental with family members.
Ask Honest Questions When Something Is Not Understood
There will be times when someone in the family phrases something in an awkward or confusing way. Do not just disregard the statement. It could be very important. Ask honest and non-accusatory questions when you do not understand something. A simple question can sometimes clarify points that defuse conflicts or improve understanding of what is happening in the family.
Never Talk Over Each Other or Interrupt
Make a rule that only one family member will speak at a time. This is important during large family meetings. Eschbacher law says talking over each other or interrupting constantly means some statements are not going to be heard and understood. Each person should have a quiet period to talk so that everyone else will understand what is being said.
You want your family to have a good and healthy relationship. You want your spouse and children to feel comfortable coming to talk to you about difficult subjects, and this means you need to make an effort to listen and communicate. Taking just a few steps will allow your family to understand each other better.
