10 Communication Skills That Can Improve Any Relationship
Good communication is the foundation of every healthy relationship, whether it’s with a partner, a friend, a family member, or even a coworker. But many of us never get taught what good communication actually looks like. Instead, we pick up habits that can leave us feeling unheard, frustrated, or misunderstood.
The good news is that communication is a skill set you can develop. Here are 10 practical communication skills you can start practicing today to improve your relationships.
1. Really Listen (Not Just Wait to Talk)
We often think we’re listening when, in reality, we’re planning what we’ll say next. Active listening means fully focusing on the other person’s words, body language, and tone, without interrupting or rehearsing your response.
Try reflecting back what you heard before responding:
"It sounds like you’re saying you felt hurt when I canceled. Did I get that right?"
2. Use “I” Statements
Blaming or accusing language puts people on the defensive. Instead, describe how you feel and what you need using “I” statements.
Instead of saying, “You never help around the house,” try:
"I feel overwhelmed when I’m handling all the chores. I’d like us to figure out a way to share them."
3. Pay Attention to Your Body Language
Nonverbal communication can speak louder than words. Crossed arms, avoiding eye contact, or sighing can make your words seem insincere.
Open, relaxed body language - facing the person, uncrossed arms, and nodding occasionally - can make a big difference.
4. Be Clear and Specific
It’s easy to assume others know what you want or mean, but that’s rarely true. Vague statements can lead to misunderstandings.
Instead of saying, “I wish you were more supportive,” you might say:
"I’d really appreciate it if you could check in with me during stressful weeks or help with dinner when I’m working late."
5. Manage Your Emotions Before Speaking
When emotions are running high, it’s easy to say things you don’t mean. Take a moment to breathe, step away if needed, and return to the conversation when you feel calmer.
Saying, “I need a few minutes to collect my thoughts. Let’s come back to this in 10 minutes” can help keep things constructive.
6. Don’t Interrupt
It’s natural to want to jump in when you disagree or have something to add. But interrupting sends the message that you value your own words more than theirs.
Let the other person finish before you respond. It builds trust and shows respect.
7. Show Empathy
Even if you don’t agree with someone’s perspective, you can still acknowledge their feelings.
Saying something like, “I can see why you feel frustrated about that,” helps the other person feel understood and keeps the conversation open.
8. Avoid Bringing Up the Past
It’s tempting to bring up old grievances during a disagreement, but that usually derails the conversation and makes it harder to resolve the current issue.
Focus on what’s happening now and how you both can move forward.
9. Know When to Take a Break
If a conversation starts to feel unproductive or heated, it’s okay to pause. Agree on a time to return to it so the other person doesn’t feel abandoned.
"Let’s take a break and talk about this after dinner" is much better than letting emotions escalate.
10. Practice Gratitude and Positive Feedback
Communication isn’t just about addressing problems; it’s also about expressing appreciation and recognizing what’s going well.
Saying, “I really appreciate how you handled that today,” helps strengthen the connection between you and the other person.
Final Thoughts
Strong communication doesn’t happen overnight, but small changes can have a big impact on your relationships over time. By practicing these skills, you can create more understanding, reduce conflict, and build deeper connections with the people around you.
If you’re struggling to improve communication in your relationships, therapy can help you build these skills and work through the barriers that get in the way. Feel free to reach out if you’d like support.
More Articles: Mental Health Awareness Month: How to Support a Friend or Loved One Who’s Struggling
Thriving While Single: Building a Life You Love on Your Own Terms
Dating in Stars Hollow: What Gilmore Girls Teaches Us About Healthy (and Unhealthy) Relationships
What Companies Can Do to Support Employee Mental Health (And Why It Matters)
