CHECK YOUR COMMUNICATION SKILLS...

Listen, don’t talk. Aim to listen more than you talk, so that you can both air your views and be heard. Presumptions lead nowhere, either. Ask how they feel and listen to their response. Then, seek clarification: ‘So, what you’re saying is... is that right?’

Don’t lay blame. We can all point fingers when we’re hurt, but a much more productive solution is to talk about how you feel. Blame can feel like an attack, which leads to defensiveness. Nobody said it was easy! Pushing forwards with increased communication can feel awkward and forced, but the more you do it, the more natural it will feel.

stuck, consider the situation again and make a conscious effort to change your response. Find a new way to approach or discuss the problem that will open up alternative solutions.