Ever feel like you’re talking to a wall, that what you’re saying is getting through to the other person? Here are some tips on how to hear and be heard.

When you are Speaking:

o  Speak for yourself, no mindreading!

o  Say what you want instead of what you don’t want.

o  Make requests, not demands.

o  Don’t go on and on.

o  Pause, let the other person summarize.

When you are Listening:

o  Don’t interrupt, don’t disagree.

o  Don’t be sarcastic, don’t criticize. 

o  Keep eye contact.

o  Try to understand.

o  Summarize what you hear.

Good communication is one of the most important factors in healthy relationships of any kind.  No matter if you think you’re a good or bad communicator, it’s always a good idea to practice good listening and speaking skills.

Try it today. Is there something that you really want to tell or ask someone? Use the simple skills above to talk to them. Practice it in your head first then sit down and talk to them. The more you practice, the easier and more natural it will become.