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Communication Foundations

Master the fundamentals of effective communication in intimate relationships. Learn how to express needs, navigate difficult conversations, and build deeper understanding through dialogue.

beginnerLevel
2 hours
4 Lessons
communicationactive listeningi-statementsboundariesdifficult conversationsrelationship skills

Course Content

0 of 4 completed

Welcome to Communication Foundations

Select a lesson from the sidebar to begin learning.

What You'll Learn

  • Identify your personal communication style and understand how it affects your relationships
  • Practice active listening techniques that make partners feel heard and understood
  • Express needs and desires clearly without triggering defensiveness
  • Navigate sensitive topics with confidence and compassion

Recommended Resources

📚

Nonviolent Communication

by Marshall Rosenberg

A classic guide to compassionate communication.

📚

Difficult Conversations

by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, Sheila Heen

Harvard's research on how to handle tough discussions.

📚

Crucial Conversations

by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler

Tools for talking when stakes are high.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my partner won't communicate with me?

You can only control your own communication. Express your needs clearly, invite conversation, and if they consistently refuse to engage, consider whether this relationship meets your needs for connection and growth.

Is it ever too late to improve communication?

It's never too late. Even long-standing patterns can change when both people commit to learning and growing. Consider couples counseling if patterns are deeply entrenched.

What if we communicate differently and keep misunderstanding each other?

Style differences are normal. Focus on curiosity rather than frustration. Ask questions like 'What did you mean when you said that?' and 'How can I phrase this so it lands clearly for you?'