Effective communication is important, no matter the relationship. When it comes to family communication, it can often take a back seat. You might think you know your family and everyone has their own quirks and communication styles.
That might be true, but it doesn’t mean communication shouldn’t be prioritized. That’s especially true if you feel like you’re disconnected, somehow.
Family communication issues can lead to misunderstandings, resentment, grudges, and so much more. Understanding and practicing effective family communication can make a big difference in the overall family unit.
So, how can you put effective family communication into practice?
1. Make Time for Communication
There’s no denying everyone has a busy life. When you’re trying to wrangle several family members together to talk, it’s not an easy task.
But, you’re not going to be able to communicate the way you should if everyone is distracted with other things.
Prioritize making time in your schedule to connect with your family. It could be once a day or once a week, depending on everyone’s needs and lifestyles. Even if you aren’t able to connect in person, consider something like a video chat. As long as there are no other distractions around and you’re able to give everyone your full attention, it’s worth it.
2. Be an Active Listener
Communication is a two-way street.
You might have a lot to say, and that’s good. But, you shouldn’t expect everyone to hear you out if you aren’t going to practice active listening, in return.
Active listening is about more than just hearing what someone has to say. Truly pay attention, avoid distractions, ask questions for clarification, and use nonverbal cues to show that person you’re paying attention.
Being an active listener doesn’t just help the family member you’re talking to. When you make the choice to truly listen, you might end up learning more about a family member than you ever thought. You might even change your perspective on them. The more you’re willing to listen, the more likely it is that they’ll open up and show vulnerability.
3. Use “I” Statements
If you’re trying to improve family communication, there’s probably a reason. Maybe someone is consistently doing something that gets to you. Maybe there’s a disconnect within the core family unit.
Whatever the case, when you’re communicating, focus on using “I” statements. Tell your family how you feel without attacking their actions. When you start a statement with something like “you always do this,” you’re likely to be met with a defensive attitude. If you really want someone to listen and make positive changes, make the conversation about your feelings.
4. Show Empathy
In addition to talking about your feelings, don’t be afraid to put yourself in other family members’ shoes.
Empathy is an essential skill to have when it comes to communication. If you can’t see where another person is coming from, it’s going to be difficult to agree or even compromise with them.
You and your family members don’t have to see eye-to-eye on everything. But, showing empathy will help others feel seen, heard, and understood, even if you don’t always agree.
Plus, when you show empathy toward your family members, they’re likely to do the same in return. When everyone adopts that attitude, your conversations will be less confrontational and confusing.
It’s okay for everyone in your family to have different communication styles. It’s not okay to use that as an excuse to stop communicating completely.
Keep these tips for effective family communication in mind. Whether you all live under one roof or you’re trying to connect across the country, they can make it easier to understand each other and bring more harmony to your familial relationships.
If you’re looking to improve the communication within your family, Contact Us to get started with one of our skilled therapists that specializes in family dynamics.