In a relationship, communication is the act of sharing one’s thoughts, feelings, and needs with one’s partner. It also means listening to one another in return. Good communication builds trust and helps solve problems that might arise in a relationship, even before it arises.

SOME REASONS FOR LACK OF COMMUNICATION

• Vulnerability: Individuals may shy away from communicating with their partners to avoid being vulnerable.
• Lack of Trust: Individuals might hold back from communicating with their partners because they do not trust them to handle their truth and weaknesses.
• Deceit: Individuals might hold back effective communication with their partners because they are being dishonest.
• Individuals might hold back from communicating with their partners because they are afraid of losing control of their emotions, using the wrong words, or giving too much information and get missunderstood.

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNICATION IN A RELATIONSHIP

• Helps Solve Problems: Discussing with one’s partner helps clear misunderstanding
• Helps Build Trust: Being open with one’s partner helps strengthen the trust between one another.
• Helps Strengthen Connection: Sharing feelings with one’s partner helps build connection and brings one closer to each other.
• Avoid Conflict: Clear communication minimizes arguments, and helps avoid conflicts in the relationship.

HOW TO BUILD GOOD COMMUNICATION IN A RELATIONSHIP

• Listen to your Partner: Individuals should pay attention to their partner when they are speaking, especially on sensitive matters.
• Be Honest: One should be honest with their partner about how they feel even if it is difficult. Be kind but not at the expense of truth.
• Understand the Power of Timing: Do not start a serious conversation when one is tired or upset. Also, some conversations are best held in person and not on the phone.
• Individuals should try to avoid blaming their partner, instead they should say how they feel about the situation.
• In a relationship, individuals should be empathetic with one another, and understanding how important their emotional support in particular is important to their partner.

Good communication is the foundation of a healthy relationship. By listening, being honest, and showing empathy, one can build a stronger bond with their partner. Remember, mistakes will happen, which is okay as long as one is willing to work together with their partner on improvement. There is no perfect relationship, just as there is no perfect partner, but with commitment and good communication, a relationship could last a lifetime. Lack of communication in any relationship is the beginning of the end of that relationship.

©️2025 Victor E. Ojei.