You Can Say So Much Without Saying Anything At All

Communication is EXTREMELY important in any relationship. When you communicate you let you partner know what you appreciate and need in a relationship. It also gives the couple the opportunity to know if there is a problem within the relationship and work through it. When we think of communication the first thing the usually come to mind is verbal communication. Verbal communication is when words are used to discuss whatever idea you want to convey. Much can be said when using this form communication, however much more can be said when nothing is actually said at all.

Nothing being said is NOT the same as nothing being communicated. Non-verbal communications ends up communicating the most. Think about it, when someone gives you the silent treatment they aren't physically verbalizing anything but they are sure communicating a lot. Even though nothing is being said, when someone gives you the silent treatment you clearly understand that something is wrong and you should probably try understand the reason for the silent treatment and find ways to resolve the issue that caused the silent treatment in the first place. Body language is also a common form of non-verbal communication. When you see a somber look on someones face they probably not feeling too happy and are in need of some cheering up. When someone sits really close to you for no particular reason, they are probably interested in you. Body language can communicate a lot without using words.

In a relationship it is important to know how to communicate. This involves understanding the verbal communication but it also means being very in tune and aware of all the non-verbal communication. Being aware prevents small conflicts from escalating to bigger problems. It can also give opportunities to understand each other, enjoy one another, and talk through any issues.

In my experience, there needs to be balance of verbal and non-verbal communication, and for me that balance is more verbal than non-verbal. I'm one of those people that can pick up on subtle, non-verbal communications but it takes a little bit of time to do so. If someone wants me to understand their want or needs right then and there, they need to say it. It is easier and faster if someone verbally communicates what they need. It prevents any misinterpretations or misunderstandings that could otherwise be instantly understood. If you need something don't simply leave subtle hints hoping someone will pick up on it because it can take a while or not even happen at all. Both way of communication are needed in a relationship but it is important to understand and figure out when it is appropriate to use verbal communications versus non-verbal communication.