
Use “I” messages rather than “You” messages when talking.
Resist giving advice or your reaction until you are certain you have fully understood what the person was saying to you. ―I hear you saying that you don’t like your sister. Listen for how the other person is feeling and relay back what you think they were saying and how they are feeling. Focus on what the person is telling you - rather than thinking about your reaction or response to what is being said. Give the person your full attention, turn off the TV or put down what you are doing. To build strong family relationships, listen actively to each other. Until we can hear each other, we cannot build strong relationships. One of the best ways to strengthen your family is to increase your listening skills and those of other family members.
Strong families have open lines of communication - where all family members feel heard and respected. A strong family gives its members the support they need to make it through life’s toughest spots. It should provide love and warmth to all of its members. Our family teaches us how to function in the world.