In Dennis Rainey's book, "Preparing For Marriage," there are many great principles for relationships. Among them are the following guidelines for effective speaking and listening. Some people are expert communicators and don't need these suggestions. However, most people are not. If we don't think about how we communicate, there is a good chance we are communicating poorly.
Read the following guidelines for communication and be blessed! Pray that you can communicate more effective! God bless!
When Talking
Determine what you want to say:
What are my assumptions?
What are my beliefs?
What are my desires?
What are my dreams?
What are my needs?
Determine how you want to say it:
With excitement?
With sadness?
With conviction?
With disappointment?
With encouragement?
Determine when you want to say it:
During or after a meal?
During recreation?
At bedtime?
In the presence of children?
While driving?
Proper Listening Habits
Focus on . . .
What is being said
The way it is being said:
tone of voice, posture, etc.
Clarification of valid points
Questions
Understanding
Rather than . . .
How you feel about what is said
The words only
Defense of incorrect accusations
Indictments
Judgment
