We use communication daily for a variety of reasons, to schedule, problem solve, and answer questions. One of the most important ways that couples can use communication is to help them connect emotionally. The prepare/enrich program for couples offers many exercises to help couples feel emotional connection and intimacy.
Two of the most important skills that couples can use to help them feel more connected are assertive communication and active listening. In assertive communication the speaker is clearly and concisely identifying and expression their emotions to their partner using “I statements.” For example, your partner might say “I feel really happy when we are able to spend quality time together” in order to express their needs and desires. Active listening is the act of reflecting what your partner is saying and highlighting the emotion, in order to allow them to feel heard. An example of active listening may be “I hear you are saying that spending quality time with me makes you feel happy and satisfied.” These two skills help partners to avoid miscommunication by being precise about feelings and desires as well as by clarifying what your partner is saying so that they can verify or clarify.
Assertive communication and active listening are skills that should be practiced daily in relationships to help increase emotional intimacy. A good way to practice these skills is to engage in daily dialogue questions. Prepare/enrich suggests that the follow questions be asked and answered daily by romantic partners to help them bond and connect:
- What did you most enjoy about our relationship today?
- What was dissatisfying about our relationship today?
- How can I be more helpful to you?
Asking and answering these questions daily allows couples to connect emotionally and problem solve for issues that may arise. It also allows couples to show gratitude for the positive things in their relationship which helps each partner to feel appreciated. Engaging in daily dialogue with your partner while implementing assertive communication and active listening is a great way to help couples connect through communication.
To learn more about the prepare/enrich program please visit the following website:
https://www.prepare-enrich.com/about/