How to Improve Communication With a Friend
A good friendship is nothing without excellent communication. Being able to talk things out and express your feelings while avoiding fights and misunderstandings is going to help strengthen the bond. Not assuming and being a good listener are just two ways to help improve your communication with a friend.
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Instructions
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Avoid making assumptions until you speak to your friend. It's easy to jump to conclusions, especially if someone tells you your friend said or did something behind your back, but assumptions are often wrong. Before thinking the worst or getting angry, wait to hear an explanation. Giving your friend that chance shows you trust her; it also opens the lines of communication to discuss the issue.
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Speak honestly, but have tact. Anything you tell a friend, regardless of what the subject is, requires respect for his feelings. You may not have a problem with being told things in a blunt way, but your friend may require a different approach. When telling him something he may find offensive, go for the sensitive approach.
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Allow your friend to talk without interrupting. Interrupting him insinuates that you're not listening and that you don't care what he has to say. Whether he's telling you about a breakup or what's on his grocery list, wait to speak until you are sure he's finished. Look at him when he's speaking to you, so he knows you are paying attention.
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Listen to comments your friend makes to you about your actions. A friend shouldn't worry about telling you when something you do or did bothers her. If your friend feels she can't be open with you about an issue without getting backlash, the anger over it could build up until it explodes into a fight. Let her know that you're willing to hear her out without getting angry, discuss the problem and make adjustments if necessary.
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Make an effort to contact your friend. Technology, especially cell phones and computers, makes it easier than ever to stay in touch. An easy way to improve communication is to actually take advantage of the communication tools you have available. Don't just contact your friend when you want something; send her a text to see how her day is going, or email her if you come across something she may like.
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References
- Photo Credit friends image by Wimbledon from Fotolia.com
