I am committed to fostering healthy relationships, therefore I speak my thoughts kindly. I value my own thoughts and let go of the idea that anyone else's thoughts are more valid than my own.

I abandon the childish notion that people should be able to read my mind, and instead use effective words to communicate with others. I am willing to take the first step toward communication and resolution.

I also let go of the idea that I have to be sure I am right about an issue before I speak up about it. It is enough for me to tell someone with whom I have conflict how their words or actions make me feel.

My goal is to open doors of communication, not to prove myself right. I listen to others because I desire mutual understanding and the long-term health and strength of my relationships.

I set aside the desire to retaliate when I am hurt, knowing that nothing good can come of this and any feelings of vindication are short-lived.

Instead, I keep the big picture in mind and speak kindly, aiming only for clear communication and deeper, stronger relationships.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1.      Do I value my own thoughts as highly as those of others?  
2.      Do my words reflect my desire for communication and greater understanding?
3.      When I am in conflict with someone, do I strive to be patient?

 

 

 

I communicate effectively with others because I am true to myself.

My partner and I are able to have a deeper level of communication because I am fully aware of my thoughts and feelings. I know what I want to say because I have thought it through and talked realistically and honestly with myself first.

My relationships are important to me and I value my ability to communicate my inner thoughts effectively. I am able to do this because I practice what I want to say before I say it.

Coming to a full understanding of myself allows me to think through any frustrations and realize how my words may affect my partner.

I can vent frustrations, share excitement, and be prepared for conversations by first reflecting on my own needs. Oftentimes I find that what I really want to say is very different from the way I first felt about the situation.

When I am open and honest with myself first, I can then convey my feelings to my partner with confidence. My relationship is stronger because I first had a conversation with me.

Today, I prepare for communication with my partner by first talking with myself. I choose to take the time to vent any frustrations and sift through unnecessary dialogue in my own conversation before I have it with my partner.

Self-Reflection Questions:

1.      Have I thought through what I want to communicate to my partner?

2.      Have I had the conversation with myself first?

3.      How did the conversation with myself lead to a better communication experience?