We recognize when it's happening. There’s invisible light and immeasurable warmth that descends on people when blasé conversation becomes communication. Eyes sparkle with understanding and recognition, brows furrow with concentration, and ideas pass back and forth effortlessly as time seems to have no end.
A very small percentage of communication in relationships is verbal. The words we choose are not as significant as how the words are said. We convey over 80% of our messages through gestures, body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. The timing of what we say…and our use of silence has a significant impact on the total message.
The five skill levels of conversation in intimate communication is the foundation for all relationships. It’s the glue that holds relationships together or dramatically pushes them apart. We communicate internally and externally with others all of our waking hours.
The five skill levels of communication reflect the status of emotional intimacy in one's relationship, the first being the least intimate form of communication, and the last, most. They are:
- Superficial Contact and Interaction
- Small Talk
- Honest expression of Ideas, Values, and Opinions
- Open and Sincere expression of Feelings
- Full and Intimate disclosure of Ideas, Values, Opinions and Feelings
How would you rate the communication skills of yourself and of those in your relationships?
If you would like a no obligation initial assessment on how you could improve intimate communication in your relationships, call us today we'd like to help.