5 Tips to Help with Communication

Um....what? I'm busy. I don't have time for this. You don't get it. These are toxic phrases that we need to move beyond. Especially when we have to make big decisions about loved ones who need more care. Here are five tips on how to open up communication between family members and others to get to a better place.

1. Realize that Communication is a Necessity

   Any dysfunction in a relationship will show up during an emergency or significant change with a loved one. This change is inevitable; how you and your loved ones handle it is up to you.

2. Set Some Ground Rules

   • Listen with an open mind

   • Don’t immediately get offended

   • Realize that every person has something to offer

3. Get Comfortable with Being Uncomfortable

A tough one! Everyone wants things to be “fine”. Move past the fear of voicing a concern so that you can get to the next stage of healthy communication.

4. It Will Take More Than One Conversation

You can’t solve all the issues in one afternoon. But if you make a little headway, you can start moving onto larger issues with more confidence and trust.

5. Give Yourself and Others Some Compassion

It’s hard! It is definitely exhausting. But you can come out the other end a better person. And maybe the next time a situation arises you and your loved ones will be better equipped to handle it.

I'm not a licensed therapist! All of the above tips have come from situations in my own life. Better communication is an act of bravery! An act of kindness. A conscious act to be a better version of yourself. Good luck!