Some thoughts that have come to mind lately while going through a tough situation with someone. I’ve broken all of my own rules more than once:

-Communication is very tricky. It’s easy to mess it up without even realizing it. Be very clear about what you mean and don’t mean.

-Don’t try to reason with a tired mind. Your own, or the other person’s. Pick a better time. And ease into the conversation if it’s a tough subject.

-Focus more on trying to understand the other person then on getting them to understand you.

-Assume good faith. Things will go better.

-If it’s a texting conversation, make sure you read every word. Don’t skim.

-Nobody would get along if they said everything they think. Some things are worth biting your tongue over. And filtering what you say is almost always necessary.

-Don’t react. Respond when the time is right. Don’t meet anger with anger. Don’t meet frustration with frustration.

-Control yourself and maybe the other person will try to control themselves too.

-Learn to state your case and then be quiet. Try stating it a couple of different ways if you have to and then be quiet and wait.

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