There are four communication issues that can predict divorce, according to research from John Gottman, Ph.D., co-founder of the Gottman Institute, which provides couples' counseling and educates mental health care providers. But even if you're single, you probably want to protect the health of your relationships. The good news is that there are ways to address communication issues head on.
"The No. 1 skill you can cultivate to improve your relationship is to learn to empathize with your partner," Kim Polinder, the host of the podcast "Engineering Love" and a relationship coach based in Long Beach, California, tells TODAY.com. "Research shows that individuals will not move forward in a conversation until they feel that the other party understands their position."
In other words, until someone feels understood, they'll be less inclined to compromise or listen to another point of view. But showing empathy when you're communicating isn't just about getting someone to listen to you — it's a way of showing that you care.
So, the next time you're talking to a friend, your partner or a colleague, make sure that you show them that you see and hear them. True empathy could prevent a communication mishap — and strengthen your relationship.
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Keep a civil tongue.