Despite all of the advances in means of communication these days, within the family unit, effective communication has become increasingly difficult to obtain. Communication by either its presence, absence or misuse is at the core of either happiness or sadness of the family environment. If you are struggling with effective communication within the home you are not alone, here are 5 suggestions to improve family communication and hopefully enhance the home environment.
- Respond don’t react.
In families, many different situations and demands arise affecting each individual family member every day which necessitate us to communicate. Some instances may be thrust upon us without the chance to weigh up the details before we reply or address the circumstances. All too often we blurt out our feelings or opinions and give little heed to the consequences of our words. It is a very worthwhile exercise to practice taking a pause before we reply. It could be just 10 or 15 seconds delay which will give us an opportunity to consider quickly a more measured and constructive response than if we had reacted without thought.
- Be inclusive.
Family communication usually involves a number of family members interacting from their different positions within the family. Moms and dads with partners or spouses, siblings with siblings, siblings with parents or single child with parents or parent etc. Where there are two or more siblings, birth order normally comes into play as regards the eldest, youngest or middle position in the family. Every person is different and has their own particular personalities and abilities. As we communicate and relate to each other, we need to be mindful of this fact and make an effort to be sensitive and respect that every person has a right to be heard.
- Body Language / Tone of Voice.
Have you ever noticed a person’s body language as they go on the offensive and wade into a verbal confrontation. Eyes are fixed, shoulders are set, hands on the hips or arms folded and then, obligatory head shake. It’s really sending the message out to the other parties “Here’s how it’s going down” and there is no alternative. The decibel level goes sky high and the volume increases pro-rata. Maybe next time, find a place to sit or recline against, have your arms by your side and maybe be relaxed on one leg as a sign of approachability. Make your voice calm and constant but acceptably authoritative showing you are in control but not overbearing.
- Invite Suggestions.
There’s always more than one way to skin a cat and even with all of the best intentions it’s rare that one person has the monopoly on all the solutions. As we are humble and respectful towards others in the family, we make opportunity for equal contributions lending to equal recognition and mature interaction and problem solving.
- Don’t lie.
If its not the truth, don’t go there. Always deal with the truth of the situation using real examples and real alternatives. The old saying rings true “one lie always leads to another”. A person becomes known by their word, so lets make it truthful and build a reputation as a trustworthy person.