Communication

Good communication is very integral to a successful relationship. Those who share a good communication process tend to enjoy a deep and loving relationship. Yet many couples today face the problem of poor communication and it is one of the main reasons for conflict and high divorce rates in society today.

Emotional abuse is the secret bane of our society. It is difficult to name or even talk about. Often the victim does not realize that he/she is being abused. If they do talk about it, the extent of their pain may not be taken seriously. Unlike physical violence, it does not leave any visible scars.

Dating often brings a boy and a girl closer, closer not in terms of physical proximity but in terms of emotional proximity. Such an intimacy can be achieved if you and your date share certain values, move in the same general direction in life and have certain personal qualities you feel are important for your future spouse to possess. There have been several instances where couples have been set up by a friend or a well-wisher with a hope that someday, the girl can meet the man who can become her husband.

Men and women communicate differently. Men are in particular strong, silent types who do not express feelings easily. Women chat endlessly with girlfriends but men clamp up even with their girlfriends. Men are never found crying over anyone’s shoulders or discussing their problems in too much length. Women love expressing their feelings at great length and depth.

Every marriage has more than its fair share of conflicts. There is no point avoiding them or glossing over them. The trick lies in ensuring that the conflict is a healthy one and you learn from it. If the same issue comes up again and again, it means that the root cause has not been attacked and hence it surfaces repeatedly.

4. Compromise is the key

Marriages are made in heaven, but can be destroyed here on earth! A silly fight, where you kiss and make up in a matter of minutes, is fine. In fact, it can actually be good for a relationship; it would be boring if you didn't have little disagreements. But a serious, full-blown conflict that results in a stalemate where neither partner is ready to concede defeat, is detrimental to a marriage.

Communication is a two-way street. It is not only about talking and vocalizing feelings. An equal and important part of communication is also listening. And we all know that for communication to be truly effective, either between friends, partners or colleagues, both individuals in a relationship must participate more or less equally in talking and listening.

You met someone you really liked and actually hit it off. It could have been at the local pub, at a party or your friend introduced you. The sparks flew and you actually plucked up the nerve to ask for her number. And what’s more, she gave it to you. Now it’s the next day and you’re wondering when you should make that call. Or what you should say. Should you seem eager and call straight off or play it cool?