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ell, the short answer is, yes, absolutely, and the sooner the better. Why? Because good, two-way communication is just about the most important tool you will need, in order to make your relationship a long-term success. We know that not everyone is lucky enough to be born with such skills. So if you are one of those who are lacking in this department, you can learn and develop these talents yourself, in short order.
Successful relationships and communication go hand in hand. You rarely find one without the other being present. And there is good reason for this. Good communication, in its various forms, leads to solid, happy marriages and relationships, with fewer divorces and breakups.
Now, funny as this may sound, good communication sometimes means not talking at all! It can mean being a good listener. Occasionally a spouse will just need to sound off or vent, get something off his or her chest, sort of like thinking out loud. You, wise sage that you are, nod along thoughtfully, and keep your mouth in a closed position.
When they are done, they will feel better, and may even have figured out the problem for themselves. If not, you will hear that key phrase, what do you think, honey? That is your cue to jump right in with some insightful advice!
All of which is to say that good listening is a much underdeveloped and unappreciated talent today. Practice it as much as your verbal communication abilities. Also, watch for other non-verbal messages. Is he sitting there with a deep scowl on his face, with his arms crossed? Oh oh. Danger ahead! Do not ignore this warning sign, as this will only make the problem worse.
Your immediate attention is required, or he will think you are insensitive, and do not care how he feels. Yes, this is called body language. Reading your lover's signs and body language is another valuable skill you should carefully develop; it will pay big dividends in the long run.
For example, you will be able to tell at a glance if your mate is happy, upset, lying, preoccupied with something, etc. Here's a bonus: As you perfect this ability, it will make you a more alert, observant person in general. You will be more aware of what is going on around you.
If you really feel you cannot do this on your own, go to a study center and see if they have a course in communications, relationships, or personal development. In addition, just getting yourself out of the house and interacting with strangers will prove invaluable in your progress.
Is communication a skill you can learn? You can see by now that you definitely can, and it is not hard. Should you make the effort to learn it? I hope you can also see that you pretty much have to pick up at least the basics, in order to succeed with your mate.
Never forget common courtesy with your spouse. You do it with your friends and fellow workers, so why not with the one you love? Always say please and thank you. Never take him or her for granted. Show appreciation for the little things she/he does for you every single day.
Make sure your verbal communications are clear and that your partner understands what you thought you said. Never assume he/she will get it, or "should" get it. Every time you clarify something is another argument avoided. And that is how relationship and communication are so interconnected. You can't have one without the other!
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